Perhaps the single most important role for the ED physician is to detect SJS early and initiate the appropriate ED and inpatient management. Care in the ED must be directed to fluid replacement and electrolyte correction. Skin lesions are treated as burns. Treatment of SJS is primarily supportive and symptomatic. Oral lesions should be managed with mouthwashes.
Topical anesthetics are useful in reducing pain and allowing the patient to take in fluids.
Areas of denuded skin must be covered with compresses of saline or Burow solution. Underlying diseases and secondary infections must be identified and treated. Offending drugs must be stopped. The use of systemic steroids is controversial. Some authors believe that they are contraindicated.