Which step in SJS/TEN management involves ophthalmology care?

Which step in SJS/TEN management involves ophthalmology care?

• A. Stop offending drug
• B. Supportive care
• C. Ophthalmology consult
• D. Wound care

Answer: (C)

Ocular involvement is a major potential complication of SJS/TEN, and preventing long-term eye damage hinges on early, specialized eye care. Bringing in ophthalmology addresses the specific needs of the ocular surface—evaluating for conjunctival membranes, keratitis, and corneal ulcers, and initiating targeted measures to protect vision. This step complements stopping the offending drug and providing general supportive and wound care, but it is the ophthalmology input that directly tackles eye-specific risks. In practice, an ophthalmology consult allows for prompt assessment with a slit-lamp, ensures thorough lubrication and infection prophylaxis, and guides any anti-inflammatory therapy and potential procedures (such as amniotic membrane grafts) if severe ocular surface involvement is present. Early involvement reduces inflammation-related scarring, adhesions (symblepharon), and ultimately the risk of vision loss, making it a distinct, essential part of the management plan.

Ocular involvement is a major potential complication of SJS/TEN, and preventing long-term eye damage hinges on early, specialized eye care. Bringing in ophthalmology addresses the specific needs of the ocular surface—evaluating for conjunctival membranes, keratitis, and corneal ulcers, and initiating targeted measures to protect vision. This step complements stopping the offending drug and providing general supportive and wound care, but it is the ophthalmology input that directly tackles eye-specific risks.

In practice, an ophthalmology consult allows for prompt assessment with a slit-lamp, ensures thorough lubrication and infection prophylaxis, and guides any anti-inflammatory therapy and potential procedures (such as amniotic membrane grafts) if severe ocular surface involvement is present. Early involvement reduces inflammation-related scarring, adhesions (symblepharon), and ultimately the risk of vision loss, making it a distinct, essential part of the management plan.