Greater mechanistic understanding of the cutaneous pathogenesis of Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis can shed light on novel therapeutic strategies: a comprehensive review.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) are severe cutaneous adverse drug reactions (SCARs) characterized by widespread epithelial detachment and blistering, which affects the skin and mucocutaneous membranes. To date, therapeutic interventions for SJS/TEN have focused on systematic suppression of the inflammatory response using high-dose corticosteroids or intravenous immunoglobulin G (IgG), for example. No targeted therapies for SJS/TEN currently exist.

RECENT FINDINGS: Though our understanding of the pathogenesis of SJS/TEN has advanced from both an immunological and dermatological perspective, this knowledge is yet to translate into the development of new targeted therapies.

SUMMARY: Greater mechanistic insight into SJS/TEN would potentially unlock new opportunities for identifying or repurposing targeted therapies to limit or even prevent epidermal injury and blistering.