Erythema multiforme
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| Erythema multiforme Classification and external resources | |
 | |
|---|---|
| ICD-10 | L51. |
| DiseasesDB | 4450 |
| MedlinePlus | 000851 |
| eMedicine | derm/137 |
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Erythema multiforme is a skin condition of unknown etiology, but some authors suggest that the disease is mediated by deposition of immune complex ( mostly IgM ) in the superficial microvasculature of the skin and oral mucous membrane that usually follows an antecedent infection or drug exposure. It varies from a mild, self-limited rash (E. multiforme minor) to a severe, life-threatening form (E. multiforme major, or Stevens-Johnson syndrome) that also involves mucous membranes.
Diagnosis
Common Causes
The most common predisposing infection for E. multiforme is Herpes simplex, but bacterial infections (commonly Mycoplasma) and fungal diseases are also implicated. E. multiforme may also be caused by drug reactions, most commonly sulfa drugs, phenytoin, barbiturates, penicillin, and allopurinol, or a host of internal ailments.
History and Symptoms
The skin form of E. multiforme, far more common than the severe form, usually presents with mildly itchy, pink-red blotches, symmetrically arranged and starting on the extremities. It often takes on the classical "target lesion" appearance, with a pink-red ring around a pale center. Resolution within 7-10 days is the norm.
Physical Examination
 Erythema Multiforme (HSV, drug rxn, target lesion) Severe = Stevens-Johnson Syndrome[1] |
Erythema Multiforme Major |
 Erythema Multiforme reaction to an antibiotic |
References
Acknowledgement and Attribution Regarding Sources of Content
Some of the initial content on this page may be incorporated in part from copyleft sources in the public domain including wikis such as Wikipedia and AskDrWiki. Drug information for patients came from the The National Library of Medicine. Infectious disease information may have come from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Differential Diagnoses are drawn from clinicians as well as an amalgamation of 3 sources: 1.The Disease Database; 2. Kahan, Scott, Smith, Ellen G. In A Page: Signs and Symptoms. Malden, Massachusetts: Blackwell Publishing, 2004:3; 3. Sailer, Christian, Wasner, Susanne. Differential Diagnosis Pocket. Hermosa Beach, CA: Borm Bruckmeir Publishing LLC, 2002:7 .
