Toxic epidermal necrolysis in children - An update

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a relatively rare disease, characterize d by generalized erythema, bulla formation, and exfoliation of the epidermi s that resembles scalding. It is usually drug-induced. and mediated by immu ne reactions of several types. TEN has to be differentiated from erythema m ultiforme and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, TEN bears a life-threatening potent ial and a risk for significant complications such as dehydration; secondary infections; pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and renal involvement; and late s carring with cosmetic and functional implications. Therapeutic intervention s include admission in a burn center unit, systemic antibiotics and cortico steroids, topical therapy with antibacterial agents and biological dressing s, and supportive measures.