Approaching Target and Targetoid Eruptions in Inpatient Dermatology

AbstractPurpose of ReviewTo summarize the differential diagnosis and describe a clinical approach for the evaluation of target and targetoid lesions in hospitalized patients.Recent FindingsImportant diagnostic considerations for target and targetoid lesions in an inpatient setting include erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis, mycoplasma-associated rash and mucositis, fixed drug eruption, urticaria multiforme, subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and Rowell syndrome. Less frequent diagnoses may include erythema migrans, arthropod bite, erythema gyratum repens, erythema annulare centrifugum, tinea concentricum, tinea corporis, Granuloma annulare, elastolytic giant cell granuloma, cutaneous T cell lymphoma, linear IgA syndrome, pigmented purpuric dermatosis of Majocchi, hobnail hemangioma, and acute hemorrhagic edema of infancy. Morphology can be a key in initially discriminating among these entities. Classic target lesions should be distinguished from targetoid, gyrate, and annular lesions.SummaryThe differential diagnosis of target and targetoid lesions in hospitalized patients is broad; however, attention to additional morphologic features, location, concomitant symptoms, mucosal involvement, histopathology, location, and progression can aid in diagnosis. Clinical evaluation should also consider patient demographics and associated systemic symptoms to elucidate the correct diagnosis.

Source: Current Dermatology Reports - August 25, 2020 Category: Dermatology Source Type: research