title: Current concepts of toxic epidermal necrolysis.
abstract: Toxic epidermal necrolysis consists of two distinct clinical entities. The Ritter type, seen mostly in children under age 10, is the severest manifestation of staphylococcal disease. A toxin has been isolated which is postulated to be the cause for clinical lesions. High epidermal necrosis occurs. Treatment is with one of the penicillinase-resistant penicillins, and prognosis is good. The Lyell type is seen mostly in adults, is drug-related, and may be the severest form of the Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Full-thickness epidermal necrosis occurs. Treatment consists of withdrawing the offending drug. Good nursing care is essential. Prognosis is guarded.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003231:Conjunctivitis / Q000150:complications; D003873:Dermatitis, Exfoliative / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D006801:Humans; D008712:Methicillin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D051379:Mice; D011379:Prognosis; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology; D013203:Staphylococcal Infections / Q000150:complications*; D013262:Stevens-Johnson Syndrome / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy
chemical_list: D008712:Methicillin