title: Toxic epidermal necrolysis in children--an update.
abstract: Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a relatively rare disease, characterized by generalized erythema, bulla formation, and exfoliation of the epidermis that resembles scalding. It is usually drug-induced and mediated by immune reactions of several types. TEN has to be differentiated from erythema multiforme and Stevens-Johnson syndrome. TEN bears a life-threatening potential and a risk for significant complications such as dehydration; secondary infections; pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and renal involvement; and late scarring with cosmetic and functional implications. Therapeutic interventions include admission in a burn center unit, systemic antibiotics and corticosteroids, topical therapy with antibacterial agents and biological dressings, and supportive measures.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, Maimonides Medical Center, NY, USA.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ringheanu
authors.forename: T A
authors.initials: TA
authors.lastname: Laude
mesh_terms: D002053:Burn Units; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011379:Prognosis; D013262:Stevens-Johnson Syndrome / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy