ERYTHEMA MULTIFORME
PROBLEM
An acute inflammatory disorder of the skin and mucous membranes, erythema multiforme is usually self-limited and benign.
A severe form is known as Stevens–Johnson syndrome or erythema multiforme major, and the less severe form is referred to as erythema multiforme minor.
CAUSE
The cause is unknown in 50% of the cases. Erythema multiforme has been associated with viral infections, particularly the herpes simplex virus; bacterial and protozoan infections; an immunologic reaction of the skin; medications (sulfonamides, penicillins, anticonvulsants, salicylates, barbiturates, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs]), with reactions occurring up to 7 to 14 days after using the medication; pregnancy; premenstrual hormone changes; malignancy; or radiation therapy. Risk increases with previous history of erythema multiforme.
PREVENTION/CARE
A.Avoid suspected causes.
B.Seek prompt treatment of any illness or infection.
C.Prevent herpes simplex virus outbreaks by avoiding sun exposure and reducing stress.
D.Seek treatment immediately if at any time symptoms seem to be worsening or increasing.
E.Discontinue any implicated medication.
F.Apply wet dressings or soaks with Burow’s solution or apply lotions to soothe the skin.
G.Bathe in lukewarm to cool water three times a day for 30 minutes.
H.Monitor yourself for any eye involvement and report it to your healthcare provider immediately.
I.If mouth sores are present, use good oral hygiene (brush two to three times a day using a soft brush) and rinse frequently with cool water.
J.Hospitalization may be required if there is extensive skin involvement.
Activity: As tolerated by the extent of the symptoms. Restrict yourself to bedrest if fever is present.
Diet: Usually no special diet is necessary, although if mouth sores are present, a soft or liquid diet may be better tolerated. Increase fluid intake above the general 8 to 10 glasses per day.
Medications: May be prescribed to control symptoms and pain.
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If:
A.You have an adverse reaction to or cannot tolerate any of the prescribed medications.
B.Symptoms worsen during treatment, or the rash does not clear in 3 weeks (usual course: rash evolves over 1–2 weeks, usually clears in 2–3 weeks, but may take 5–6 weeks).
C.New or unexplained symptoms develop.
D.You have any questions or concerns.
Phone: ____________________________
RESOURCE
American Academy of Dermatology
9500 W Bryn Mawr Avenue, Ste 500, Rosemont, IL 60018-5216
United States
Phone: (888) 462-DERM (3376)
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