* Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), and the related, more severe Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), are potentially life-threatening disorders that can be triggered by drugs, especially some antibiotics.
— Cytotoxic release of granzymes causes severe blistering; SJS is characterized by blistering of less than 10% of the skin, and TEN is characterized by blistering of more than 30% of the skin.
— Early recognition is key for effective treatment; causative agents, such as drugs, must be removed immediately.
Hypersensitivity via Cytotoxic T Cell
- Destruction of host tissues is direct:
— When the cytotoxic T cell recognizes the antigen-MHC I complex, it releases granzymes and other harmful molecules into the tissues.
