What Conditions is Erythema Nodosum Associated With?

Discussion Erythema nodosum (EN) is a common dermatological eruption characterized by inflammatory nodules of the subcutaneous fat (panniculitis) on the extensor surfaces of the extremities especially the shins, thighs, and forearms. They are usually painful, nodular, bilateral and multiple. They can be found on other areas and be unilateral. They can be red, purple or blackish. They usually resolve without problems in 3-6 weeks. Diagnosis is usually clinical but biopsy may be needed if there is atypical presentation or history, physical examination or laboratory testing reveals potential underlying diseases. Treatment is usually conservative with rest and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Identified underlying causes of the EN should be treated but in some studies more than 50% of the causes remain unidentified. Other treatments include steroid medication and even potassium iodide has been used. Learning Point A study of 39 Turkish children in 2014 found the following causes of EN (some had two infections): Idiopathic = 43.5% Streptococcal infection = 23% Mycoplasma pneumonia = 7.7% Tularemia = 10.2% Tuberculosis, latent = 5%, pulmonary = 2.5% Behçet disease = 2.5% Cytomegalovirus = 2.5% Giardia lamblia infection 2.5% Sarcoidosis = 2.5% EN has been associated with a variety of other causes including: Drugs – Bromides and iodides, Oral contraceptives, Penicillin, Sulfonamides Infections Bacteria – Brucellosis, Campylobacter, Chlamydia trachomati...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news