TEN
Also written as: TEN — Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis; a life-threatening mucocutaneous reaction characterised by widespread full-thickness epidermal detachment affecting more than 30% of body surface area.
Full Definition
Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) is the most severe end of the Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/TEN spectrum, typically triggered by drugs (e.g., allopurinol, sulfonamides, anticonvulsants) or infections. It involves sub-epidermal blistering with full-thickness epidermal necrosis, leading to sheetlike skin loss and mucosal involvement. The SCORTEN score is used in clinical documents to predict mortality. Editors must ensure the spectrum terminology is applied correctly: SJS (< 10% BSA detachment), SJS/TEN overlap (10–30%), and TEN (> 30%). TEN must always be expanded at first use; the acronym should not be confused with 'ten' in any numerical context.
Usage
Usage note: Always expand at first use. Distinguish clearly from SJS on the spectrum. The SCORTEN scoring system is a companion tool often referenced in TEN documentation.
In Context
- "The patient was transferred to the burns unit with TEN (Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis) involving 45% BSA, triggered by lamotrigine." — Intensive care transfer letter
- "When editing oncology adverse-event reports, ensure TEN is not abbreviated without prior expansion, as it can be misread as a numeral." — Editorial guideline