About erythema multiforme bullosum

What is erythema multiforme bullosum?

Erythema multiforme (EM) is the name applied to a group of hypersensitivity disorders, affecting mostly children and young adults, and characterized by symmetric red, patchy lesions, primarily on the arms and legs. The cause is unknown, but EM frequently occurs in association with herpes simplex virus, suggesting an immunologic process initiated by the virus. In half of the cases, the triggering agents appear to be medications, including anticonvulsants, sulfonamides, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and other antibiotics. In addition, some cases appear to be associated with infectious organisms such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae and many viral agents.

Erythema multiforme is the mildest of three skin disorders that are often discussed in relation to each other. It is generally the mildest of the three. More severe is Stevens-Johnson syndrome. The most severe of the three is toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN).

What are the symptoms for erythema multiforme bullosum?

Malaise symptom was found in the erythema multiforme bullosum condition

Onset of erythema multiforme is usually sudden in an otherwise healthy individual. Red spots (macules or papules), or ridges (wheals), and sometimes Blisters appear on the tops of the hands and forearms. Other areas of involvement may include the face, neck, palms, soles of feet, legs, and trunk. The Lesions continue to erupt for two or three days. Some spots, especially on the hands and forearms, may evolve into concentric circles that resemble a target, with a grayish discoloration in the center. A crust may develop over the center. In about half of the cases, Lesions may develop on the lips and the mucous membranes in the mouth. The skin Lesions are usually distributed on both sides of the body. Itching can also occur.

Systemic symptoms vary, but malaise, Pain in the joints (arthralgia), muscular stiffness and Fever are frequent. Additional symptoms may include vision abnormalities; dry or bloodshot eyes; and eye pain, itching, or burning.

Attacks usually last two to four weeks, and may recur. Classic EM tends to recur two or three times a year for several years after its first appearance.

What are the causes for erythema multiforme bullosum?

The cause of erythema multiforme is unknown, but it appears to be an allergic reaction that occurs in response to medications, infections, or illness. As noted above, it often appears in association with herpes simplex virus or with infectious organisms such as Mycoplasma pneumoniae.

In approximately half of the cases, it appears that the triggering agent is a medication. Drugs that have been associated with erythema multiforme include anticonvulsants, sulfonamides, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and other antibiotics.

What are the treatments for erythema multiforme bullosum?

When a cause for erythema multiforme can be found, it should be treated, eliminated, or avoided (e.g. drugs or other substances to which the patient is allergic). Local treatment depends on the type of lesion.

Most people with classic erythema multiforme can be treated as outpatients with therapy, such as antihistamines, addressing their symptoms. Sometimes, no treatment is required.

For blisters and erosive lesions, intermittent moist compresses may be helpful. Over-the-counter antihistamines usually take care of whatever itching may be present. Infections of the lips and mouth usually can be managed with topical anesthetics but may, in some cases, require special care.

What are the risk factors for erythema multiforme bullosum?

Erythema Multiforme Bullosum can range from mild to severe. The skin rash caused by erythema multiforme minor is typically caused by a modest disease. Mucous membranes may be severely affected by erythema multiforme major, which can be severe mucous membranes, and usually requires more intensive therapy.

Risk factors for erythema multiforme bullosum

  • These are the risk factors involved to Erythema Multiforme Bullosum.
  • Being HIV-positive: The prevalence of Erythema Multiforme Bullosum is approximately 100 times higher in the HIV-positive population than in the general population.
  • Weak immune system: An organ transplant, HIV/AIDS, and autoimmune illnesses can all have an impact on the immune system.
  • Cancer: Erythema Multiforme Bullosum is more common in those with cancer, especially blood cancer.
  • A background with the Stevens-Johnson syndrome: If you previously experienced a medication-related variant of this ailment, using that medicine again puts you at risk for a recurrence.
  • Genetic factors: Erythema Multiforme Bullosum is more likely to develop if you have specific genetic abnormalities, particularly if you also take medication for gout, seizures, or a mental disorder.
  • genetic influences
  • Erythema Multiforme Bullosum is more likely to develop if you have specific genetic abnormalities, particularly if you also take medication for gout, seizures, or a mental disorder.


Symptoms
Red spots (macules or papules), or ridges (wheals), and sometimes blisters appear on the tops of the hands and forearms,but malaise, pain in the joints (arthralgia), muscular stiffness and fever, vision abnormalities; dry or bloodshot eyes; and eye pain, itching, or burning
Conditions
Symmetric red, patchy lesions, primarily on the arms and legs
Drugs
Barbiturates, sometimes prescribed for anxiety,Nonsteroidal,Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs),Phenothiazines for the treatment of mental and emotional disorders,Sulfonamides, penicillin, and nitrofurantoin
anticonvulsants,Statins, which help reduce cholesterol

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