Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
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Toxic epidermal necrolysis is perhaps the most formidable disease encountered by dermatologists. Uncommon but not rare, toxic epidermal necrolysis occurs in 60 to 70 persons per year in France. It remains as puzzling a disorder as it was 34 years ago, when described by Lyell. ⋯ Surviving patients completely heal in 3 to 4 weeks, but up to 50% will have residual, potentially disabling ocular lesions. The prognosis is improved by adequate therapy, as provided in burn units, that is, aggressive fluid replacement, nutritional support, and a coherent antibacterial policy. Corticosteroids, advocated by some in high doses to halt the "hypersensitivity" process, have been shown in several studies to be detrimental and should be avoided.