Vulvovaginal involvement in Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: management and techniques used to reduce gynecologic sequelae.

BACKGROUND

Vulvovaginal involvement in Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is common, likely underdiagnosed, and can result in severe sequelae if not managed acutely. There are few studies on acute management of vulvovaginal SJS/TEN. Current recommendations are predominantly based on expert opinion. We aimed to determine the frequency of vulvovaginal involvement in SJS/TEN at a single institution, identify treatment modalities, and assess outcomes at a tertiary care burn center.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of vulvovaginal SJS/TEN cases between 2009 and 2019. Demographic and clinical data including exam findings, treatment regimens, and outpatient follow-up were collected from the electronic medical record.

RESULTS

Vulvovaginal involvement was observed in 12.7% (19/149) of cases of female patients with SJS/TEN. The mean age was 38.7 years (SD 23.6), and 21% (4/19) of patients were pediatric (age 9-18). Vulvar involvement was seen in 47.3% (9/19), and vulvar plus vaginal involvement was reported in 42.1% (8/19). Treatment regimens were variable until 2017, at which time institutional guidelines were implemented including application of ultrapotent topical steroid, vaginal estrogen, and menstrual suppression. Gynecology follow-up occurred in 15.7% (3/19) of cases. One complication of superficial vaginal agglutination was noted and was successfully treated in the office with blunt dissection.

CONCLUSION

The most common treatment modalities employed at our institution included application of ultrapotent topical steroid, vaginal estrogen, and menstrual suppression. While follow-up was limited for our patient population, we propose an algorithm to prevent long-term sequalae of vulvovaginal SJS/TEN. Gynecologic surveillance is recommended to reduce urogynecologic sequelae.