Critical Paediatric Care at SJMC: From a life-threatening Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) involving over 60% of his total body surface area to full recovery
When seven-year-old Adam* arrived at Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC) under the care of Dr Sanjay Woodhull, Consultant Paediatrician, he was battling a life-threatening case of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS). Over 60% of Adam’s body surface was affected, coupled with severe oral mucositis, making his condition extremely critical.
Understanding Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) is a severe disorder of the skin and mucous membranes, often triggered by certain drugs or infections. Drug-induced SJS typically manifests within one to three weeks of starting medication. Cases as severe as Adam’s carry a mortality rate exceeding 60-70% and significant long-term complications for survivors.
Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Care
Adam’s recovery was made possible through a multidisciplinary team (MDT) at SJMC, including paediatric consultants, plastic surgeons, ENT surgeons, anaesthesiologists, NICU nursing team, paediatric ward nursing team and paediatric ward pharmacist.
The first two to three weeks were the most challenging. Dr Jenny Tan, Consultant Paediatric Dermatologist, and Dr Somasundaram Sathappan, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, played critical roles in managing Adam’s care. Their expertise, combined with advanced wound care, fluid resuscitation, infection prevention, and surgical debridement (a procedure that removes damaged, dead, or infected tissue from a wound), ensured his survival and gradual recovery.
“Coordinating multiple specialties for simultaneous procedures in the operating theatre posed a significant logistical challenge, yet the team demonstrated exceptional efficiency and collaboration,” shared Dr Sanjay Woodhull.
Dedication Across All Disciplines
The nursing team at SJMC provided round-the-clock ICU care, infection control, intensive monitoring, and seamless communication across specialties. Meanwhile, Ms Patt Pei Yee, Paediatric Ward Pharmacist, meticulously managed Adam’s medications, ensuring accurate dosages and preventing drug interactions—crucial given the complexity of his condition.
A Miraculous Recovery
After 40 days of intensive care, Adam made a miraculous recovery. By the time of his discharge, his skin had healed, and his strength had returned.
His mother Melissa expressed her gratitude: “Words cannot express my gratitude to the entire team at SJMC. Their seamless teamwork and dedication made me feel completely confident in their care. Thank you for giving us hope throughout this challenging journey.”
SJMC: Delivering Excellence in Paediatric Care
Adam’s story is a testament to SJMC’s expertise in critical paediatric care, multidisciplinary collaboration, and commitment to achieving the best outcomes for patients.
If you or your loved ones need expert paediatric care, Subang Jaya Medical Centre is here to provide world-class treatment and unwavering support.
*Names have been changed to protect the individual’s privacy.
The Multidisciplinary Team involved in Adam’s Recovery
Consultant Paediatrician, Dr Sanjay Woodhull
Consultant Paediatric Dermatologist, Dr Jenny Tan
Consultant Paediatric Gastroenterologist, and Hepatologist, Dr Ng Ruey Terng
Consultant Paediatric Ophthalmologist, Dr Norazah Abdul Rahman
Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr Somasundaram Sathappan
Consultant Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Dr John Ranjit
Consultant Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon, Dr Shifa Zulkifli
Consultant Anaesthesiologist, Dr Suresh Venugobal
Nursing team in NICU
Nursing team in Paediatric Ward
Paediatric Ward Pharmacist, Ms Patt Pei Yee