Symptom 4: Skin Shedding
One of the most distinctive and concerning symptoms of TEN is the shedding of large sheets of skin. As the condition advances, the damaged epidermis begins to detach from the underlying layers of the skin, resulting in extensive skin loss.
Skin shedding in TEN typically occurs within days of the initial symptoms and can affect up to 30% or more of the body’s surface area. This extensive skin loss leaves the body highly vulnerable to infection and other complications, making it crucial to seek immediate medical care.
The skin shedding process can be incredibly painful and distressing for those affected by TEN. Proper wound care and pain management are essential to minimize the risk of infection and promote healing. In severe cases, patients may require treatment in a burn unit or intensive care unit to manage the extensive skin damage and associated complications. (4)
