Erythema Multiforme : Treatment and Symptoms

What is erythema multiforme?

Erythema multiforme (EM) is a rare skin disorder that mainly affects childrenTrusted Source. When seen in adults, it usually occurs between the ages of 20 and 40, although it can happen to people of any age. Men tend to experience erythema multiforme more frequently than women.

EM is a rash that’s usually caused by an infection or medication. It’s typically mild and will resolve after a few weeks. This is called erythema multiforme minor.

Erythema multiforme is also known as:

• febrile mucocutaneous syndrome
• herpes iris, erythema multiforme type
• dermatostomatitis, erythema multiforme type
• febrile mucocutaneous syndrome

Symptoms of erythema multiforme

The erythema multiforme rash

The EM rash can consist of dozens of target-shaped (bull’s-eye pattern) lesions that develop over a 24-hour period. These lesions can start on the backs of hands and tops of feet before spreading to the trunk. They may also develop on the face and neck. The arms may be more affected than the legs. These lesions can be concentrated on the elbows and knees.

Erythema multiforme minor

In minor cases of EM, there are lesions covering the affected area. The rash will affect both sides of the body. For example, if it’s on one leg, it will also affect the other leg.

If you have EM minor, you may have no symptoms other than feeling like the rash is itching or burning and perhaps a low fever.

Erythema multiforme major

In cases of EM major, there can be additional symptoms, such as:

• fatigue
• joint ache
• a brownish color to the rash once it fades

EM major lesionsTrusted Source can also seriously affect any of the body’s mucous membranes, most often the lips and interior of the cheeks. It can also affect the:

• bottom of the mouth, palate, and gums
• eyes
• genitals and anus
• trachea (breathing tube)
• digestive tract

Lesions in these areas may cause swelling and redness with blisters. The blisters also break, leaving painful, large, irregularly shaped ulcers covered with a whitish membrane. When the lips are affected, they’re swollen and covered with a bleeding crust. There can be difficulty speaking and swallowing because of pain.

Causes of erythema multiforme

Erythema multiforme is associated with the virus that causes cold sores (herpes simplex virus). Doctors also believe that many cases of erythema multiforme occur when other infections stimulate the body’s immune system to attack skin cells. Certain medicationsTrusted Source can also cause someone to develop erythema multiforme:

• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• antibacterial medications
• penicillin and penicillin-based antibiotics
• seizure medications
• anesthesia drugs
• barbiturates

If, while using any of these drugs, you notice an EM rash starting, tell your doctor. Don’t stop taking medication without consulting your doctor.

Getting immunized against diseases such tetanus-diphtheria-acellular pertussis (Tdap)Trusted Source or hepatitis B may also cause a person to develop EM. This is rare and the low risk does not usually warrant remaining unvaccinated. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about vaccine side effects.

Is it contagious?

Since EM is usually caused by the herpes simplex virus or your reaction to a medication or vaccine, it isn’t contagious. This means that someone who has it can’t give it to someone else. There is also no reason to avoid someone who has EM.

n both major and minor forms of EM, the symptoms are treated using:

• antihistamines
• pain relievers
• soothing ointments
• a saline mouthwash or one containing antihistamines, pain relievers, and Kaopectate
• topical steroids

In severe cases, careful wound care and Burrow or Domeboro solution dressings could be necessary. Using a liquid antiseptic such as 0.05 percent chlorhexidine when bathing will help prevent infection from other bacteria or viruses. You can also use a gauze dressing for sensitive areas like the genitals. In all cases, your doctor will try to discover what’s causing the rash to decide on the best way to resolve it.

If it’s an infection

If an infection is the cause, then the appropriate treatment will depend on the results of cultures or blood tests. If herpes simplex virus is the cause, your doctor can only treat it to prevent future outbreaks after the condition resolves.

If it’s due to medication

Your doctor may stop all drugs as a first step to discovering which could be causing the symptoms.

In the worst cases of erythema multiforme major, hospital staff may have to treat respiratory problems and dehydration or edema.

Does it recur?

Erythema multiforme can recur when the trigger is a herpes simplex 1 or 2 infection. Standard herpes treatments are used to prevent this type of recurrence. EM can also recur when a drug that caused the rash initially is used again.

Outlook for erythema multiforme

When the symptoms are severe, complications of EM can include:

• permanent scarring
• permanent eye damage
• internal organ inflammation
• blood poisoning
• skin infections
• septic shock

However, most people who experience EM will recover completelyTrusted Source after a few weeks. There usually won’t be any sign (like scarring) that you had it. If herpes simplex triggered the rash, then you may have to use antiviral medication to prevent recurrences.

If you have symptoms of EM, see your doctor right away to prevent complications. Talk to your doctor about what’s causing your EM and what measures you might need to take for your overall health.