Erythema multiforme

Erythema multiforme is typically a mild, self-limited, potentially recurring mucocutaneous inflammatory condition.

Characterized by target lesions that resemble a bull's eye. These usually erupt over 24-48 hours and last for 1-2 weeks.

Typically presents in a symmetrical distribution of lesions over the dorsal surfaces of the extensor extremities with minimal mucous membrane involvement.

Generally related to infectious diseases and not drug exposure. The most commonly associated infections are herpes simplex virus and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Other less commonly associated infections include hepatitis B, hepatitis C, influenza, Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, histoplasmosis (with concomitant erythema nodosum), orf, coccidioidomycosis, Kawasaki disease, herpes zoster, syphilis, HIV, gardnerella, and SARS-CoV-2.

Certain drugs have been associated with erythema multiforme. Vaccines and allergic response to contact allergens have also been known to elicit the disorder.

Supportive care and treatment of underlying infection/withdrawal of the offending drug remain the mainstay of therapy.

Erythema multiforme (EM) is typically an acute, self-limited but often relapsing, mucocutaneous inflammatory condition. It is a hypersensitivity reaction associated with certain infections, vaccinations, and, less commonly, medications. The disease is characterized clinically by target lesions, which can be described as annular erythematous rings with an outer erythematous zone and central blister sandwiching a zone of normal skin tone. These are distinct from targetoid lesions, which can also be present but are less common, in which the center is not blistered.

In general, the lesions cover <10% of the total body surface area. Mild symptoms of an upper respiratory infection, including low-grade fever, can sometimes be noted prior to and at the start of an episode. Orolabial lesions are noted in two-thirds of patients; about 40% of patients have oral lesions alone. Erosions, blisters, and crusts can be noted in any of the mucous membranes and are typically painful and tender. This can lead to difficulty eating and urinating, requiring hospitalization.[1]Lerch M, Mainetti C, Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Harr T. Current perspectives on erythema multiforme. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2018 Feb;54(1):177-84. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29352387?tool=bestpractice.com [2]Sokumbi O, Wetter DA. Clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of erythema multiforme: a review for the practicing dermatologist. Int J Dermatol. 2012 Aug;51(8):889-902. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-4632.2011.05348.x/full http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22788803?tool=bestpractice.com [3]Grünwald P, Mockenhaupt M, Panzer R, et al. Erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis - diagnosis and treatment. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. 2020 Jun;18(6):547-53. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32469468?tool=bestpractice.com

This topic focuses on EM in adults.