Treatment of toxic epidermal necrolysis in a pediatric patient with a nanocrystalline silver dressing

Abstract Background/Purpose To report a case of toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) involving 90% body surface area, successfully treated with a nanocrystalline silver dressing (Acticoat, Smith & Nephew, Largo, FL). Methods A review of the hospital and acute wound center patient records and the recent English medical literature regarding TEN and nanocrystalline silver dressing. Results We found only 1 report of TEN treated with a nanocrystalline silver dressing. The nanocrystalline silver dressing was both effective in preventing wound infection and convenient for treating our patient with TEN. Conclusion The use of nanocrystalline silver dressing should be considered for the treatment of TEN.