While the overall rate makes Stevens-Johnson Syndrome side effects relatively rare, the fact that many common drugs and antibiotics can cause the disorder means that thousands of people could be affected each year. With that in mind, researchers recently examined the link between secondary diseases, and how that could affect the fatality rate.

The study, published in Clinical Infections Diseases, looked at more than 70 cases of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome side effects or its more dangerous cousin, toxic epidermal necrolysis, over the course of six years. They found that the most common antibiotics that caused those autoimmune disorders were some of the oldest: penicillins and cephalosporins. However, it was what they found about co-morbidity, or the link to secondary diseases, that is most interesting.

Patients who presented with pre-existing conditions from heart and kidney failure to cancer were more likely to succumb to toxic epidermal necrolysis and related conditions. However, even co-morbidities like type-2 diabetes and type-1 diabetes were linked to a higher mortality rate in patients who suffered from allergic reactions to the antibiotics.

Unfortunately, doctors still need to treat the underlying bacterial infection, especially in patients who are suffering from significant illnesses or organ failure. The doctors noted that the most effective treatment was immediate cessation of the original drug and replacement with a structurally different antibiotic. Still, that will only minimize the progression. SJS side effects class action lawsuit lawyers have noted that their clients have lost their sight and significant portions of their skin before grafts.

It is important to note that older antibiotics are not the only causes of these autoimmune disorders. Epilepsy treatments including Lamictal and Dilantin also put patients at enough risk that they carry FDA-mandated “black box” warnings. The warning signs of fever and chills may be harder to detect in those that are already sick, but the stippling of a rash on the arms, legs or face is another warning sign.

Since the condition is relatively rare, the symptoms are often not immediately associated, leading to significant hospital stays. If that sounds like your situation, you can learn more about your legal rights by submitting your story for a free, confidential claim review.