A 12-year retrospective study of non-burn skin loss (burn-like syndromes) at a tertiary burns unit in a developing country

BackgroundA retrospective study of the presentation, etiology, and prognosis of non-burn epidermal loss managed at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital Nigeria over a 12-year period.Materials and methodsAdmission records of patients managed for non-burn skin loss were retrieved from the medical records. Demographic details of the patients, the initial diagnosis, final diagnosis, treatment and outcome of treatment was noted.ResultsA total of 23 patients were identified, 17 (74%) had idiosyncratic drug reactions. Of this 17, 6 (26%) had Steven Johnson Syndrome, 6 (26%) had Steven Johnson Syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis while 5 (22%) presented with toxic epidermal necrolysis. Three of the five patients with toxic epidermal necrolysis died. The age range of patients with idiosyncratic adverse drug reactions was 2–28 years, mean, 10.18 ± 1.44 years and male to female ratio of 1:1.83. The body surface area involved ranged from 8 to 78%; mean 26.65 ± 6.08%. The agents suspected for the reactions were Co-trimoxazole (41.2%) and combination of Co-trimoxazole, and Fansidar® (17.6%). Other conditions seen were two (9%) Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome, three (13%) had Necrotizing Faciitis, one of whom was HIV positive and died. One (4%) patient presented with pemphigus vulgaris. The presentation and management of the patients was discussed.