Erythema nodosum is an inflammatory disease of the skin and the tissue under the skin. It leads to painful red nodules. It most commonly affects the skin of the legs, especially areas over the large bones in the lower leg. Less frequently, it involves the arms and other areas. The disease is not contagious and occurs most frequently in females between the ages of 12 to 40.
Causes of Erythema Nodosum
Although the cause of erythema nodosum is unknown, there are a number of situations that are may precipitate the disorder. These include the use of drugs, such as birth-control pills (especially those high in estrogen), sulfonamides, iodides and bromides. Infections are frequently linked with the development of this condition. Those that are known to have some relationship include Streptococcus (most common), coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, sarcoidosis, blastomycosis, tuberculosis and Yersinia infections. People who suffer from autoimmune diseases, where tissues of the body are attacked and damaged by their own immune system, are at risk as well as those with chronic bowel inflammation. Dysproteinemia (involves protein in the blood), consumption of foods with food dyes or preservatives, and cancer are other conditions that have been associated with the development of erythema nodosum.
Signs and Symptoms of Erythema Nodosum
Erythema nodosum produces nodules that have the following varcharacteristics: They are red, warm, tender and painful. the usually measure somewhere between 4 cm to 10 cm. Rarely, do more that than 6 nodules appear at any one time. The nodules usually appear on the front of the lower legs. they occur on both legs at the same time or may involve one and then the other. There is often swelling and pain on the ankles and knees. Fever may accompany the entire process. The nodules undergo changes in color, from pin to red to blue/brown. This metamorphosis occurs over 7 to 10 days.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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