8. Skin Rashes Turning Necrotic: The Visible Trauma
SJS is most infamously associated with its skin manifestations. The skin, reacting to the rogue immune response, begins showing rashes that quickly evolve. Within days, these can turn into blisters, which subsequently become necrotic.
The necrosis, or cell death, in the skin layers is an alarming sign of SJS’s severity. As the skin dies, it begins to detach, leading to areas that resemble burns. These areas are not just painful but are also vulnerable to infections.
The aftermath of such extensive skin damage is lengthy and arduous. Healing can take weeks, and even once healed, the skin might show permanent signs of scarring, discoloration, or irregularities.
Immediate medical care is crucial. Patients might require treatment in burn units or intensive care units. The focus is on preventing infections, managing pain, and supporting the skin’s natural healing process with appropriate interventions. (8)
