Risk factors

Factors that increase your risk of SJS/TEN include:

• HIV infection. Among people with HIV, the incidence of SJS/TEN is about 100 times greater than that among the general population.
• A weakened immune system. The immune system can be affected by an organ transplant, HIV/AIDS and autoimmune diseases.
• Cancer. People with cancer, especially blood cancers (hematologic malignancies), are at increased risk of SJS/TEN.
• A history of SJS/TEN. If you've had a medication-related form of this condition, you are at risk of a recurrence if you use that drug again.
• A family history of SJS/TEN. If a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, has had SJS/TEN, you may be more susceptible to developing it too.
• Genetic factors. Having certain genetic variations puts you at increased risk of SJS/TEN, especially if you're also taking drugs for seizures, gout or mental illness.