Acetylsalicylic acid and other salicylates in relation to Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis

Abstract

Aims: Various nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are known to increase the risk of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. The relationship between salicylate treatment and these conditions is not known. Methods: A case-control study was conducted in four countries in Europe from 1989 to 1995. Results: Among 373 cases and 1720 controls, the multivariate relative risk estimate for any salicylate use in the previous week was 1.3 (95% confidence interval, 0.8-2.2); no statistically significant elevations were observed for single ingredient preparations or for salicylate-containing combination products. Conclusions: Acetylsalicylic acid and other salicylates are not associated with a measurable increase in the risk of these rare but severe reactions.