Cause 2. Infections at Play: More than Just a Passing Illness
We often regard infections as transient health disturbances. A course of treatment, some rest, and one bounces back. But sometimes, the ramifications run deeper. For instance, specific viral infections, like herpes, don’t just cause their primary symptoms. In a cruel twist, they can also increase the risk of SJS.
But why would a virus lead to a skin condition? The answer might lie in our immune system. When combating an infection, our immune system is on high alert. In its zeal to protect the body, it might misidentify some of our own cells as enemies, leading to autoimmune reactions. It’s a classic case of friendly fire, and the skin, unfortunately, bears the brunt of this mistake.
On the bacterial front, culprits like Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Streptococcus have been implicated in SJS. These bacteria, which cause respiratory infections among other things, seem worlds apart from a skin condition. Yet, the link exists. The body’s reaction to these bacterial invaders can, in rare instances, pave the way for SJS.
Diving deeper, it’s evident that the bridge between infections and SJS is the immune system’s response. While the exact mechanisms remain a topic of intense research, this connection underlines the intricate nature of our body’s defenses and their occasional misfires.
The sphere of infections leading to SJS doesn’t end here. As research progresses, more dots are being connected, broadening our understanding and hopefully, leading to better preventive measures in the future. (2)
