[Stevens-Johnson Syndrom and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis--based on literature].

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis syndrome (TEN) also known as Lyell's syndrome, are acute autoimmune dermatoses, which are potentially life threatening. They are both forms of necrotic skin reactions which causes epidermis to separate from dermis as a result of abnormal process induced by drugs or infections. Historically they were classified as a form of exudative erythema multiforme, but nowadays they are categorized as different disease entities. The reason is more severe clinical course in case of SJS and TEN, and known causes (medicines, infections). The criterion for distinguishing the two forms is based on the quantitative evaluation of the surface of affected skin. In case of SJS the affected area comprise up to 10% of body surface area, while in Lyell's syndrome it is over 30%. If affected skin surface ranges from 10% to 30%, it is defined as overlapping syndrome.