Erythema is a term meaning redness of the skin. Erythema can have many causes, such as blushing, hot flushes, sunburn, and inflammatory, infective, or allergic skin disorders such as acne, dermatitis, eczema, erysipelas, rosacea, and urticaria. Disorders in which redness of the skin is a feature include erythema multiforme, erythema nodosum, erythema ab igne, lupus erythematosus, and erythema infectiosum (also known as fifth disease).

ERYTHEMA AB IGNE

Erythema ab igne presents red, mottled skin that may also be dry and itchy.

Erythema ab igne is caused by exposure to strong direct heat, such as when an individual as been sitting too close to a fire.

The condition is most common in elderly women.

Dryness and itching can often be relieved by use of an emollient (soothing cream). The redness fades in time but may not disappear entirely.

ERYTHEMA MARGINATUM

Erythema marginatum presents a pink rash that appears and disappears spontaneously  and that may affect any area of the body except the face.

Erythema marginatum is a characteristic sign of rheumatic fever.

ERYTHEMA MULTIFORME

Erythema multiforme is an acute inflammation of the skin, and sometimes of the mucous membranes (the thin, moist tissue that lines body cavities), that is sometimes accompanied by generalized illness. Erythema multiforme means “skin redness of many vaireties”.

Erythema multiforme causes

Erythema multiforme can develop as an adverse reaction to certain drugs, such as aspirin and sulphonamides, or it may accompany certain viral infections (for example, herpes simplex) or bacterial infections (such as strepytococcal infections). Other possible causes of erythema multiforme are pregnancy, vaccination, and radiotherapy. However, about half of all cases occur for no apparent reason.

Erythema multiforme symptoms

A symmetrical rush of red, frequently itchy, spots erupts on the skin of the limbs and, occasionally,  on the face and the rest of the body. The spots may blister or form raised, pale-centred weals known as target lesions. People suffering from erythema multiforme may have a fever, sore throat, headache, and/or diarrhoea.

In a more severe form of erythema multiforme, known as Steven-Johnson syndrome, the mucous membranes of the mouth, eyes and genitals are all affected and become ulcerated.

Erythema multiforme treatment

Treatment for erythema multiforme depends on the underlying cause. Any causative drug treatment will be withdrawn and any underlying condition will be treated if possible.  Corticosteroid drugs may be given to reduce the inflammation. People suffering from Steven-Johnson syndrome are also given analgesic drugs (painkillers) and may need intensive care.

ERYTHEMA MIGRANS

Erythema migrans presents a red, circular rash tha occur as a result of infection with Lyme disease, a tick-borne bacterial disease.

Erythema migrans first appears at the site of a bite from an infected tick.

The rash then expands, over a period of days or weeks, to form a large, round patch.

Erythema migrans is most commonly found on the thighs, groin, or trunk, or in the armpit.

ERYTHEMA NODOSUM

Erythema nodosum is a condition Characterized by reddish-purple, tender swellings on the legs. Erythema nodosum is usually associated with another illness.

Erythema nodosum causes

The most common cause of erythema nodosum is a streptococcal infection of the throat. However, the condition is also associated with other diseases, mainly tubercolosis and sarcoidosis, and may occur as a reaction to drugs, including oral contraceptives, aspirin, and sulphonamide drugs. Sometimes there is no apparent cause.

Erythema nodosum symptoms

The swellings, which may range from about 1 to 10cm in diameter, and shiny and tender and occur on the fronts of the shins, the thighs, and, less commonly, the arms. Joint and muscle pains and fever also usually occur.

Erythema nodosum treatment

Successfull treatment of any underlying condition clears the swellings. Bed rest, analgesic drugs (painkillers), and, occasionally, corticosteroid drugs, may also be necessary. The condition usually subsides within about a month.

ERYTHEMA INFECTIOSUM (FIFTH DISEASE)

Erythema infectiosum, also known as Fifith disease, is an infectious disease that often causes a widespread rash. Fifth disease, which is also known as slapped cheek disease, mainly affects children and is caused by a strain of parvovirus (B19).

It is usually transmitted in airborne droplets from the coughs and sneezes of infected individuals, but it may occasionally be transmitted through a blood transfusion or from mother to fetus.

The only treatment for the infection is with drugs to reduce the fever. In most cases the condition clears up within two weeks. However, people at risk of anaemia may need hospital treatment. One attack of parvovirus confers lifelong immunity.

Source: A-Z family medical encyclopedia by BMA

Popularity: 100% [?]