Journal of wound care
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Journal of wound care · Jun 2021
Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis: a 10-year experience in a burns unit.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and its more severe counterpart, toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), are skin hypersensitivity reactions defined by epidermal blistering and necrosis. The exact pathophysiology of SJS/TEN is yet to be deciphered, but a number of risk factors have been identified including adverse drug reactions. The diagnosis of SJS/TEN is made on a clinical basis, and treatment consists of supportive care and occasionally immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporin, high-dose intravenous immunoglobulins and/or corticosteroids. Mortality rates can reach 20-25% in adults but are reduced with early intervention. To identify optimal treatment regimens, to better understand the patient cohort affected, and to help identify key risk factors for mortality, we report our experience with the treatment and management of SJS/TEN patients. ⋯ SJS and TEN are rare but extreme reactions of the skin and mucosa, associated with high disease mortality rates. This 10-year single-centre retrospective review contributes to the bank of information for reviews evaluating the management of SJS/TEN patients.
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Journal of wound care · Oct 2020
Meta AnalysisBiological versus non-biological dressings in the management of split-thickness skin-graft donor sites: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
There are currently no definitive guidelines regarding the management of split-thickness skin-graft (STSG) donor sites. The literature reports biological and non-biological dressings as the two main groups; however, there is no conclusive evidence regarding the ideal type. A systematic review and meta-analysis of existing clinical trials was performed to compare biological and non-biological dressings in managing STSG donor sites. ⋯ The rate of epithelialisation and wound healing is greater for STSG donor sites when treated with biological dressings, but they offer no difference in terms of reducing pain, limiting infection or exudation.