What is Erythema Multiforme?

A skin disorder that is from an infection or allergic reaction, erythema multiforme is a hypersensitivity response. It can be in response to certain illnesses, medications, or infections. Medications that can be a factor include phenytoin, sulfonamides, penicillins, and barbiturates. Infections that can be a factor include mycoplasma and herpes simplex.

Types

There are two forms, erythema multiforme minor and erythema multiforme major. Minor is just that, minor in severity and caused mostly by mycoplasma or herpes simplex infections. Major is more severe, and caused by medication reactions. Erythema multiforme major can also be known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms that can occur are fever, skin itching, general ill feeling, joint aches, and skin lesions that may spread, start quickly, have blisters, and be surrounded by red rings. Other signs include dry eyes, bloodshot eyes, mouth sores, vision problems, eye pain, and eye itching, burning, and discharge.

Diagnosis

There can be a skin lesion biopsy, but diagnosis is generally based on physical exams and a history of related conditions or risk factors.

Treatment

Treatment includes controlling the underlying illness, treating symptoms, and preventing infection. If it is medication induced, your doctor will probably want you off the medication. Other treatments of the mild form include topical anesthetics, over the counter medications for discomfort, oral antivirals, moist compresses, and antihistamines. Other treatments for the major form include antibiotics, intravenous immunoglobulins, corticosteroids, and hospitalization.

The mild form can get better within two to six weeks, with some chance of return. Severe forms can have a much harder road to treat and have higher death rate. There can be shock, body wide infections, and internal organ lesions as complications.

Source: A.D.A.M.