Experience with toxic epidermal necrolysis treated in a burn center.

Toxic epidermal necrolysis syndrome is one of several clinically similar, severe acute, exfoliative skin disorders that have become of increasing interest to burn surgeons in recent years. Recognition of a clinical course similar to extensive second-degree burns has resulted in the development of treatment protocols that are best carried out in a burn unit by personnel experienced in critical care techniques, the management of extensive cutaneous injuries, fluid and electrolyte derangements, and intensive nutritional support of critically ill patients. Current evidence suggests that in most instances toxic epidermal necrolysis syndrome is a CD8 lymphocyte-mediated reaction triggered by exposure to certain drugs. The target organs of the immune reaction are skin and mucous membranes. Appropriate management of the extensive skin wounds and the nutritional and critical care support afforded by treatment in burn units appears to have contributed significantly to the increasing survival of patients with this devastating and potentially lethal illness.