Management of Vulvovaginal Stevens-Johnson Syndrome and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

Abstract

Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) is an autoimmune process resulting in painful epidermal sloughing that can involve the vulva and vagina. Current guideline recommendations are based on expert opinion and may not reflect modern management of SJS/TEN in burn centers. We performed a retrospective chart review of 34 female patients treated for SJS/TEN at our burn center from 2015 to 2023. Cases frequently involved the vulva (83.3%) and vagina (56.0%), though pelvic examination often was limited. For eight patients with confirmed vulvovaginal lesions, there were no direct sequelae of SJS/TEN requiring intervention. In the modern era of SJS/TEN management in burn centers, interventions such as steroids may not be needed.