Erythema multiforme exudative - photo of characteristic symptoms. Erythema multiforme - causes, symptoms and treatment


For people who suffer from allergies, there is no worse time than the off-season - spring and autumn. The time when wonderful aromas fly in the air, pollen and other charms become a real hell for an allergic person. With all sorts of negative reactions on environment, allocate one unpleasant disease - erythema multiforme exudative. What is this disease and how best to deal with it, you will learn from this article.

Getting to know the disease

Multiform exudative erythema- This is a complex disease that is characterized by a variety of rashes throughout the body, including mucous membranes. Also, such erythema can often be repeated and more than once. Relapses occur during allergic seasons - spring and autumn. In children, erythema multiforme exudative manifests itself as often as in adults and requires a special, milder approach to treatment.

forms of erythema.

There are two forms of erythema multiforme exudative:

  1. Idiopathic erythema multiforme exudative. Idiopathic means one that appears without external causes, by itself. For erythema of this type, the onset of symptoms due to infectious and allergic genesis is characteristic. The cause of an extensive rash may be the presence of an allergen in the body, but a banal infection can also be another irritant. A complex allergic reaction is the result of a weakened immune system and the whole body. Often, carriers of idiopathic erythema have chronic, untreated infections. For example, caries, periodontal disease, tonsillitis and more. Idiopathy can also be caused by a virus of a different type.
  2. If erythema is a habitual condition for the patient, then it often manifests itself in the off-season in 50% of patients. This form of erythema does not limit its victims in age, but mows down both large and small.

Symptomatic multiform exudative erythema. The reason for the appearance of this form is only an allergen in the form of an unfavorable environment, drugs, air and other things. Among the most unsafe drugs that tend to cause such allergies are all kinds of antibiotics, sulfonamides, barbiturates, serums for various purposes, vaccines and much more.

To summarize, the causes of erythema multiforme exudative are that a person is taking a medicine or other medical preparation, or that a person has a certain infection, against which erythema can develop.

Symptoms of erythema multiforme exudative

Defeat skin with erythema.

This disease is characterized by an acute onset. That is healthy man in a short period of time can absolutely change for the worse in terms of health. The first symptoms are local pains all over the body. Among the frequent places where a painful focus can occur are the throat, muscles, joints. Also, the initial stage is characterized by general weakness, unstable temperature. Outwardly, this may resemble overwork or a common cold. Another mask behind which erythema can hide is tonsillitis.

If a person is overtaken by symptomatic erythema, then the exact reference will be the use of some drug that does not correspond individual characteristics organism certain person. If we compare the further course of these diseases, then it does not differ at all from each other.

Manifestation of erythema on the hands.

Irritation on the skin appears in the next stage. It is, as a rule, extensive, but symmetrical. Often a rash appears in sensitive places: in the bends of the elbows, near the hands, in the area of ​​​​the forearm, sometimes - near the face, on the neck, and feet. It is characteristic that almost always ulcers "climb" on the lips. The problem is that such wounds complicate the process of eating.

Irritation on the skin at first looks like small spots or spots with swelling, but then it intensifies in them inflammatory process. The spots have certain shapes and reach sizes of 5-15 mm in diameter. The color of such a rash is bright red, and something grayish appears along the edges. Sometimes the spots merge with each other, forming patterns and small ulcers on the body. But ulcers can also take the form of inflamed sacs - blisters, blisters. If you touch such blisters incorrectly, you can tear off a large area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin and even cause an infection. Ulcers are different from each other.

  • If a child suffers from such a disease, then it is very important that he does not comb his rash. Otherwise, an infection can be introduced into the inflamed places, from which the patient's condition will only worsen. In order for the child not to rub against the affected areas, topical creams that reduce symptoms should be used. But such creams must be agreed with the attending physician.
  • Another way the disease manifests itself is a rash on the genitals, inflammation of the eyes (conjunctivitis). Special attention should be given to the skin that is under the folds of the skin - a beneficial environment is created there for the propagation of small bloody and purulent crusts. The rash is constantly updated, and the previous symptoms remain in place. Temperature, headache and weakness are constant companions of erythema.

The whole process of fighting the disease can take 10-15 days. During this time, the body must not only get rid of the irritant, but also recover in its previous form.

Diagnosis of the disease

For an experienced specialist (allergist or dermatologist), it will not be difficult to distinguish erythema multiforme exudative from everything else. In order to make a diagnosis, the doctor must necessarily collect an anamnesis, ask the patient several essential questions:

  1. What drugs did the patient take before the onset of such an organism reaction?
  2. What is allergic to?
  3. What unusual objects, things or environments has the patient come into contact with?
  4. What suspicions on allergens?

Based on all the symptoms listed above, the doctor must conclude that erythema is present, and then find out the cause of such an organism reaction. To determine the pathogen, a blood test, urine test, a detailed examination of the plates on the skin, and so on are used.

Diagnosis of erythema multiforme exudative erythema has some difficulties in that this disease can slightly resemble some of the beloved other types of erythema, lupus.

The main differences in erythema multiforme exudative appear in two forms. From erythema nodosum, exudative erythema multiforme differs in the presence of spots in the former that resemble bruises, but such changes in skin color do not carry seals or blisters. Often, erythrema nodosum occurs on the legs.

Chilling is another form of an allergic reaction of the body to external destroyers. When chilly, small nodules appear on the limbs, dies that constantly itch.

The etiology of erythema multiforme exudative is not fully understood. In each case, it is necessary to look for its own cause. For this, a specialized doctor (allergist or dermatologist) must take certain tests. The most important analysis that can indicate that a person is struggling with erythema multiforme exudative is a blood test. It shows how the body resists the disease, how many leukocytes are in the blood, and so on. Urine is also taken for analysis.

Whatever the causes of erythema multiforme exudative, the main task of any attending physician is to remove the allergen-irritant from the human body, due to which the state of health worsens.

Treatment of the disease

Treatment of erythema multiforme exudative is a lengthy process that requires effort on the part of the patient. But after a full course of treatment, the likelihood increases that the patient will not experience a relapse during the off-season.

The main guideline of any doctor is the prevention of subsequent attacks. To do this, you should find out which allergen is harmful, as well as develop an action plan, a plan with which you can protect the patient from contact with the irritant as much as possible. The doctor must determine what type a particular exudative erythema multiforme is. After that, you can proceed directly to treatment.

If repetitions of such allergic reactions are very common, and each period of the disease is accompanied by multiple rashes, lesions of all mucous membranes, then an injection of diprospan should be used. This drug will not cause a repeated reaction of the body, but it will clear it of all irritants.

It is better to refuse antibiotics, but in some cases of severe infection, it is impossible to do without them. The doctor must carefully assess the risk that the patient may face: whether his weakened body will cope, whether there will be an allergic reaction, and so on.

Disprospan is a universal medicine for such problems. Actually, with this medication, the question of how to treat erythema multiforme exudative is not worth it, since the drug has all the necessary properties for normal recovery the patient's body.

If the disease has touched or severely damaged the mucous membranes, then it is necessary to contact specialized specialists, for example, an ENT or ophthalmologist. These physicians must make up their own additional system of treatment of damaged areas until full recovery.

Additional Help: Traditional Medicine

Arnica is a folk remedy to combat erythema.

Erythema multiforme exudative can also be treated with folk remedies. But it is important to use them only as an addition to the main drug method of getting rid of the problem. Before using traditional medicine you should also consult your doctor.

It is one of the most useful plants in the fight against this disease - arnica. From it, you can make lotions on damaged areas, as well as useful vitamin decoctions for oral use. The recipe for the infusion is simple: a collection of herbs is poured with boiling water, it is infused, and then you can drink it 6 times a day, one spoonful. With the help of some additives, a good ointment will turn out. For ointment, we use grass, ground to a powder state, mixed with pork fat. This mixture should be heated for three hours.

Prevention of erythema multiforme exudative

Prevention of erythema multiforme exudative is simple.

  • You must know exactly what substances, products, environments you are allergic to. When you know your enemy by sight, it is much easier to avoid a direct confrontation with him. Even in allergy season, you can figure out a way to not face the cause of rashes and other unpleasant symptoms. In addition, if you have any allergies, you should have a list of allergens and carry it with you in case of an emergency.
  • See a doctor even if you have the slightest hint of this type of allergy or infection. Such diseases are easily cured if they are not started, if they are not given a chance to rule over you.
  • Do not leave any diseases untreated, especially infectious and inflammatory ones. Scientists have proven that erythema multiforme exudative in 70% of cases occurs in those who suffer from chronic diseases(caries, sinusitis, etc.).
  • Keep anti-allergic drugs in reserve. They should be in your first aid kit.

This is very simple rules that will make your life easier and save you from possible relapses unpleasant illness.

Epidemiology

Already Gebra, who singled out this disease as a special nosological unit, indicated that it is seasonal and occurs mainly in October, November, April and May.

Typical symmetry of the rash

It is possible, and not rare, that the mucous membranes are also affected. Most often, the mucous membrane of the mouth suffers, especially the cheeks and palate. Here there are papular efflorescences with lentils or larger, mostly isolated, sometimes merging, slightly protruding above general level mucosa, and vesicular elements. The latter, however, in the overwhelming majority of cases, are already observed in the stage of erosion, covered with a grayish-bloody coating, surrounded by fragments of the epidermis, the remains of the former bladder cover. Their bottom is sometimes covered with a diphtheritic coating, in rare cases it is superficially gangrenized, when trying to remove the plaque, bleeding easily occurs.

Damage to the mucous membrane of the female genital organs is a common occurrence. The clinical picture is similar to that of exudative erythema on the oral mucosa, especially the lips. Occasionally, other mucous membranes are also affected - the pharynx, larynx, nasal cavity, urethra.

Disorders general condition never reach significant strength. In about half of all cases there is a fever, mostly of an indeterminate type, mainly with an evening rise in temperature to 37.8-38 °, rarely higher. It may precede the rash by a day or two, then quickly stop. Fever recurs sometimes with repeated outbreaks of rashes. Patients often complain of various subjective disorders - weakness, general malaise, headache, lack of appetite, aches, rheumatoid joint pain.

Rash especially discomfort does not call. Sometimes patients indicate mild itching, moderate puddle in the affected skin, erosion on the mucosa can cause severe pain. With localization in the larynx, severe difficulty in breathing is possible.

Etiology and pathogenesis

Exudative erythema multiforme - infectious disease. Its causative agent has not yet been found, but for infectious nature it is sufficiently convincingly said:

    a clearly expressed increase in its cases in autumn and spring;

    the nature of its course.

We do not know anything definite about the pathogenesis of this disease. Behind Lately the opinion is expressed in the literature that the alleged causative agent of the disease enters the blood circulation from some local focus chronic infection, for example, from a diseased tonsil. As you know, the development of exudative erythema multiforme is often preceded by lacunar tonsillitis.

Diagnosis

For the diagnosis of exudative erythema multiforme, the following symptoms are of particular importance:

    initial localization on the back surfaces of the hands and feet;

    symmetry of the location of the rash;

    the nature of the evolution of rash efflorescences, especially the rapid retraction of their center, the cyanotic shade of its color with the red color of the peripheral rim, the nature of the rash in flashes;

    the season also plays a certain role - in autumn and spring, cases of exudative erythema become more frequent.

This disease should not be confused with toxic erythema very similar to it, which sometimes develops:

    after applying various medicinal substances, for example, salvarsan, antipyrine, mercury preparations, arsenic, potassium iodide, etc.;

    after eating some nutrients eg fish;

    with enhanced processes of decay and fermentation in the intestine;

    as a result of certain diseases - nephritis, diabetes, uremia;

    during pregnancy, such cases are described repeatedly.

The fulcrum for correct recognition in most cases is the absence of typical localization, the characteristic evolution of rash efflorescences, the spread of rash in outbreaks, the presence, along with papular and vesicular elements, of nodes, pustules, hemorrhages, etc., and, finally, anamnestic data.

Erosions on the mucous membranes may look like syphilides. The presence of blisters or fragments of the epithelium along the edges of the elements, the cyanotic hue of color, the ephemeral nature of the course and the nature of the evolution of the elements, the absence of other indisputable syphilides, polyadenitis, etc., prevents a mistake in the diagnosis.

The prediction is always favorable, the rash resolves completely, sometimes leaving temporary peeling and pigmentation of the skin.

Treatment

General treatment consists in the appointment of salicylates in sufficient doses. We always use:

    bowel cleansing with laxatives;

    immediately followed by aspirin in usual doses, for an adult 2.0 per day.

Good results are obtained by the appointment of streptocide - 3-4 tablets per day (0.3 g each).

Local treatment of a rash on the skin - with dry rashes, indifferent, cooling mixtures. Shake, moisten the skin and allow to dry "in the air; repeat 4-5 times a day. With vesicular rashes - indifferent pastes or ointments, for example, zinc paste. In case of damage to the oral mucosa - emollient warm rinses.

Nodular erythema

Epidemiology

Erythema nodosum is most often observed in March - May, very rarely from June, and again more often from October. Familial endemias of this disease, and even small epidemics, have been described.

Symptoms and course

Erythema nodosum occurs mainly in young subjects, especially children. Girls get sick at least 3 times more often than boys. Incubation period with nodular erythema is not the same in some cases, it ranges from 3 to 14 days. Almost always, the disease begins with prodromal phenomena: either gradually, or after a tremendous chill, the temperature immediately rises to 39 ° and above, a headache appears, general fatigue, loss of appetite, insomnia - a picture develops that resembles a severe common disease e.g. the flu, typhoid fever. Quite often pains in muscles and joints develop. In about 8% of all cases, the appearance of a rash is preceded by several days of follicular tonsillitis. In children, gastrointestinal disorders are not uncommon: nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea. The duration of prodromal events ranges from 2-3 days to a week or more.

Then, as a rule, an acute skin lesion develops. On the extensor surfaces of both legs appear in various amounts bright red nodular infiltrates ranging in size from a pea to walnut, slightly elevated above the level of normal skin, hemispherical in shape, not sharply limited due to the presence of edema on the periphery. The consistency is dense, palpation causes pain, and spontaneous soreness of the nodes is sometimes noted. Their number is either insignificant or reaches 20-30 or more. They tend neither to merge nor to grow. In this form, the nodes remain for several days. Then they flatten, become less dense, and a peculiar successive change of shades begins in their color, giving rise to another name for erythema nodosum - dermatitis contusiformis. At first, the bright red color of the nodes is replaced by bluish-purple, brownish, yellow, greenish. About 2-3 weeks are required for complete, traceless resolution of the nodes, sometimes light pigmentation and slight peeling remain for some time. There is never ulceration.

Usually the rash occurs over some time with repeated outbreaks, so the total duration of the disease is measured by 3-6 weeks, and sometimes more.

Localization

The symmetrical arrangement of nodular erythema on the extensor surfaces of the skin of both legs is considered typical. In most cases, this is the only localization of nodes. But they can appear in other places as well. The mucous membranes do not appear to be affected by erythema nodosum.

General disorders in erythema nodosum are more or less pronounced.

Subjective disorders

The nodes are painful when pressed, and sometimes spontaneous, and it can be very intense. Never complain of itching. Relatively frequent indications of rheumatoid pain in the joints; there are also real arthritis.

Objective disorders

The fever reaches its maximum rise in the first days of the rash, then the temperature drops either critically or lytically; with new outbreaks, the rash may rise again. Rarely, the spleen is enlarged.

On the part of the circulatory organs, it is not a very rare occurrence transient disorders, endo- and myocarditis.

In the composition of the blood, there was a temporary decrease in erythrocytes and lymphocytes, an increase in monocytes and young forms.

Etiology and pathogenesis

The most probable is the opinion that erythema nodosum is an independent infectious disease caused by an unknown pathogen. Evidence supporting this assumption:

    repeatedly described family endemias;

    the course of the disease with prodromal symptoms, fever, general disorders, etc.;

    in the literature, observations have been repeatedly recorded, the analysis of which suggests the idea of ​​a possible contagiousness of erythema nodosum.

The prediction in the vast majority of cases is quite favorable. Returns of nodular erythema are considered rare, in most cases there is a strong immunity.

Treatment

At elevated temperature - bed rest. A good effect not only on subjective sensations (rheumatoid pain, soreness in the nodes), but, apparently, on the general course of the disease large doses salicylates, up to 3-4 g per day.

Local treatment in most cases is unnecessary. With severe pain in the nodes, you can apply vodka warming compresses, ichthyol ointment.

Erythema is a physiological manifestation in the form of reddening of the skin. Based on its many causes, doctors identify more than 25 varieties of symptoms. But some of them are considered as independent diseases. One of them is multiform (polymorphic) exudative erythema. The disease got its name due to the fact that its manifestations are identical to other types of this pathology. It most often occurs in children older than 3 years, adolescents and young people under 21 years of age.

Despite the fact that the mechanism of the development of the disease is well understood, the reasons for which it occurs are not completely clear. In medicine, this is called an unspecified etiology. Doctors suggest that erythema occurs due to an allergic reaction caused by intolerance to certain substances. Given the nature of the appearance of the latter, this disease is divided into 2 types:

  • idiopathic or infectious;
  • toxic-allergic.

The first type occurs as a complication of diseases affecting the mucous membranes of the mouth and nose: colds, flu, herpes, rhinitis, sinusitis. In addition to them, the presence of staphylococcal and streptococcal infections, fungal infections (mycoses), AIDS virus and hepatitis. It is characterized by seasonality: it manifests itself late autumn and early spring. This is due to the fact that at this time there is a peak incidence of acute respiratory infections and acute respiratory viral infections.

The appearance of the second variety of the disease causes the use of:

  • antibiotics;
  • anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);
  • sulfonamides;
  • painkillers;
  • antiseptics;
  • means preventing attacks of epilepsy and convulsions;
  • vaccines and sera;
  • multivitamin complexes.

Origin mechanism

A foreign substance, getting on the skin or mucous membranes, penetrates into them, simultaneously damaging keratinocytes. The immune system, after 1-2 days, ceases to consider them part of the body. This type of reaction is called delayed. After “recognizing” the damaged cells as foreign, she seeks to get rid of them. To do this, it triggers the inflammation mechanism, during which the blood supply to the damaged area and vascular permeability increase. Because of this, swelling, redness, lympho- and hemorrhages, symptoms and the development of infectious polymorphic erythema occur.

In 15% of cases, the appearance of the first manifestations of a rash is preceded by a persistent increase in temperature to 39-40 ° C, which is accompanied by weakness, pain in skeletal muscles and head, lack of appetite. After 1-2 days, after the rashes, it drops sharply to subfebrile (37.3-37.5°C).

In other cases, the disease begins with the appearance of a characteristic rash on the elbows and knees, as well as on outside arms (shoulder to palms), legs (thighs, shins, feet). Less commonly, they appear on the face (near the mouth), neck, and chest.

Rashes are round raised spots, somewhat similar to red blood cells, in which the edges are located above the center. Initially, they have a diameter of 2-5 mm and gradually grow to 20-30 mm. The coloration of the spots appears with bright pink edges with a blue or purple center.

Sometimes they overlap each other, forming a "target". After 1-2 days, the center of the spots turns into a vesicle (pustule) filled with blood or serous fluid. The pustule opens and a bleeding wound appears in its place. It immediately becomes covered with a gray coating, on top of which a blood crust appears. Erosion heals within 1-2 weeks, and dark spots remain in its place.

From the onset of the first symptoms to complete recovery takes an average of 2-3 weeks.

Symptoms and development of toxic-allergic erythema

Toxic-allergic exudative erythema develops similarly to infectious, but differs in the appearance of the rash and the places of its appearance. Its re-progression does not depend on the time of year.

Rashes are distinguished by a brighter color and the fact that the occurrence of one spot inside another happens 3 times more often. The vesicles that arise in their centers have stronger walls, and therefore retain their structure for a long time. In addition, they are combined with each other. Therefore, after opening, large and long-term non-healing erosions occur in their place.

The rash first appears on the face, mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, eyes. Then it spreads throughout the body, appearing on the arms, legs, chest, genitals and inside them. In case of recurrence, it manifests itself in the same place several times.

This type of erythema is prone to generalization (to the defeat of a part of the body or an entire organ). For example: if the disease appeared on back side palms, this means that it will soon appear on her inside.

Rare and severe forms

These include: rashes on the oral mucosa with infectious erythema, Stevens-Johnson and Lyell syndromes.

Rashes on the oral mucosa

The rash appears on the oral mucosa and occurs in 5% of patients. It appears suddenly, without any symptoms and looks like red spots with pale borders covering the surface of the tongue, cheeks and palate. After 3 days, the rash turns into vesicles with thin walls. Because of this, they quickly burst, and in their place a large superficial wound appears, which is covered with a gray coating. This whole process is accompanied severe pain, swelling and high fever. This leads to the fact that the patient cannot talk, eat and brush his teeth, which causes an increase in the number of bacteria and an increase in the inflammatory process.

Malignant exudative erythema or Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a kind of toxic-allergic form of the disease.

It differs in that the rashes reach 50 mm in diameter and appear mainly in the oral cavity. Damage to the surface causes increased salivation, and also interferes with breathing, eating and talking. The rash spreads to adjacent cavities and organs, causing:

nosebleeds;

inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes (conjunctivitis);

pneumonia;

meningitis.

In addition to the mouth, spots appear on the neck, arms, legs. They develop in the same way as on the mucous membranes. After opening the blisters, about 10% of the skin surface turns into a bleeding wound, then covered with a crust.

The whole process is accompanied by high fever, pain and a decrease in pressure. This form is difficult to treat and leads to the death of the patient.

Lyell's syndrome

Lyell's syndrome or epidermal necrolysis affects the face and chest of the patient with a blistering rash, under which necrotic processes occur. When opening the vesicles, about 30% of the skin turns into an erosive surface. Through it, the body loses a large number of proteins, enzymes and fluids. This process causes multiple organ failure.

Diagnostics

The purpose of diagnosis is to separate polymorphic exudative erythema from other skin diseases. To do this, the dermatologist examines the patient and collects an anamnesis. To distinguish it from other types of erythema, he prescribes the study of smears and scrapings from the surface of the rash. These methods distinguish the disease from pemphigus, erythema nodosum, and systemic lupus erythematosus. In order to exclude syphilis from suspicion, the doctor prescribes PCR and RIF.

Treatment

Treatment for infectious and toxic-allergic forms differs significantly. In the first case, the goal is to eliminate the pathogen and alleviate the symptoms. The second is to get rid of the toxin that caused the allergic reaction.

For treatment infectious form are used:

  1. Antiviral drugs: Acyclovir, Farmavir, Valaciclovir.
  2. Broad-spectrum antibiotics in the form of ointments or injections.
  3. Antiseptics: brilliant green (brilliant green), Chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide, Miramistin.
  4. Antiallergic drugs: Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone, Tavegil, Zodak.

For the treatment of the toxic-allergic form, the following are used:


Treatment is only outpatient settings. In the event that the patient has Stevens-Johnson or Lyell's syndrome, he is transferred to the intensive care unit or burn unit.

Prevention

In order to prevent the occurrence of erythema multiforme exudative, it is enough to follow simple recommendations:

  1. During the period of exacerbation respiratory diseases enjoy oxolinic ointment, medical mask, do not go to public places unnecessarily.
  2. Avoid hypothermia.
  3. Strengthen immunity with physical activity and proper nutrition.
  4. Find out which drugs cause allergies and exclude their use.

Erythema multiforme exudative is a skin disease that manifests itself in several types of rash at the same time. During its progression, it greatly spoils the appearance of a person with numerous rashes. Also, its severe forms cause disruption of the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys. These problems, superimposed on each other, the patient can be fatal.

Erythema, according to many, is a common reddening of the skin, it can be caused by strong emotions or physical damage. In this situation, erythema does not cause concern and passes by itself quite quickly. But, if you notice redness on the skin that does not go away for a long time, then you should worry and visit a dermatologist.

Erythema - red spots on the skin

What is this disease?

Erythema is a prolonged redness of the skin caused by an excess of blood in the capillaries. Such a disease can be caused by a number of reasons:

  • infection (measles or scarlet fever);
  • dermatitis;
  • redness after prolonged exposure to the skin (intense massage, for example);
  • sun or chemical burns
  • current impact;
  • allergy;
  • circulatory disorders of the skin.

Also this pathology may be caused by a nervous shock or other acute emotional reactions. Basically, redness on the skin does not pose any danger - it is natural process, but if they remain on the skin for quite a long time, then such traces indicate pathological erythema.

Intense massage can cause excessive flushing and erythema

Treatment and precautions

You should go to the doctor's office if you observe a problem. It is necessary to treat the disease and the doctor should be chosen based on the form of manifestation of the disease. In any case, visit a therapist, dermatologist, rheumatologist. If you have tuberculosis, then a phthisiatrician, and in the case of sorcaidosis, a pulmonologist. Unfortunately, prevention this disease does not exist, in most cases the cause and pathogen remain unknown. It is impossible to prevent it. But the recurrence of the disease is provoked by injuries, smoking and hypothermia. It is not difficult to cure erythema. This disease includes complex treatment. It is necessary to stop the infectious diseases that provoked it, if any. It is necessary to refuse procedures that can cause irritation of the skin. Avoid contact with chemicals. Erythema multiforme is treated with medications that strengthen blood vessels, in addition to corticosteroids, antibiotics and angioprotectors. Also used in treatment:

  • dry heat (warms with the help of woolen products);
  • gymnastic exercises that disperse the blood;
  • diet;
  • sometimes bed rest.

The causative agents of erythema are: fatty foods, alcohol, smoking, citrus fruits, coffee, chocolate.

Gymnastics is an excellent disease prevention

Types of erythema and methods for their treatment

Exudative erythema multiforme is provoked by allergies. Manifested by rashes on the skin and mucous membranes. Recurs in autumn and spring. It manifests itself mainly in young people and middle-aged people. Experts do not know the main causes of occurrence, but in most patients the causative agent is chronic diseases. Immunodeficiency also provokes erythema, the body weakens and the common cold, SARS, freezing or tonsillitis give impetus to the development of the disease. Drug allergy is a common causative agent of erythema. Therefore, you need to know the list of drugs that do not suit you. The main symptoms of erythema multiforme are pains of various types:

  • head, muscle;
  • sore throat;
  • general malaise, weakness.

The first manifestations are wounds in oral cavity and other mucous membranes. Gradually, the symptoms disappear, but sometimes persist for two or three weeks. Rashes are localized on the back of the foot or hand, palms and soles, the inside of the knees or elbows. Sometimes wounds appear in the genital area, but this is rare. Similar rashes look like flat outgrowths of a light pink color. The size is about 2-3 cm. At the next stage, the wound becomes blue tint, it may develop blisters with gray or bloody fluid. Similar bubbles can be observed in healthy areas of the skin. Patients have a burning sensation, sometimes itching. On the mucous membrane in the mouth, the wounds are located on the cheeks, palate and lips. They look like ordinary redness, after a couple of days bubbles appear, then they burst, forming erosion.

Occupying most of the oral cavity, they form a gray-yellow crust, the removal of which provokes bleeding. The forms of manifestation of erosions in the mucosa are different, sometimes patients do not experience painful discomfort, in other cases, patients cannot talk and eat.

Such rashes disappear within two weeks, and after a month there is a complete regeneration of tissues. Erythema is treated with antibiotics and corticosteroids. The affected areas of the skin are lubricated with an antiseptic. It will take a month to fully recover. Erythema multiforme is caused by a virus, also medicines. Previously this species erythema was considered a normal reaction to medications. The disease is mainly caused by the herpes virus or mycoplasma ( beneficial bacteria inside the human body), as an exception, both hepatitis C and lupus, mainly erythematosus, can provoke erythema. The symptoms of erythema multiforme are bright and hard to miss.

  1. Formations of such a nature as spots, blisters and blisters appear on the limbs and face.
  2. The affected area is a round pink spot with a purple center inside.
  3. The location of the spots is symmetrical.
  4. The oral cavity is affected by ordinary blisters, which, when exploding, form wounds.

A biopsy is rarely needed to make the diagnosis, as these symptoms are easily distinguished from those of other diseases. Treatment is not often resorted to, this kind of erythema in most cases goes away on its own. In other cases, glucocorticosteroids are used in combination with anesthesia. With frequent relapses, the so-called "maintenance therapy" is used.

Mycoplasma is one of the causative agents of erythema

One type of erythema multiforme is bullous, another name is Steven Johnson's syndrome. Allergic diseases, accompanied skin rashes. It is a malignant form of exudative erythema. The disease begins to manifest itself with a sudden and, according to many, causeless fever, malaise and headache. Muscle pain, nausea, vomiting may occur. Then, red or bright pink spots can be seen on the skin, in the center of which blisters with a cloudy gray or bloody liquid ripen. On the eyes, gums, cheeks, inside the nose, anus and genitals, blisters with liquid also appear, which, bursting, leave behind erosion. They open on average within two days.

Bubbles are localized in the joints where the limbs are bent: elbows, knees, neck, hands, forearms, also on the face, palms and soles, torso. In principle, on any part of the body, except for the scalp. Lips swell and crust over.

Possible complications in the form of conjunctivitis, bleeding in the anus, nose. More often, this form of the disease manifests itself in children and adolescents. With such symptoms, you should consult a dermatologist and an allergist-immunologist. Diagnosis is based on histological examination and overall picture the course of the disease. Treatment is mainly with broad-spectrum antibiotics or corticosteroids, ointments and washings of the affected areas of the skin and mucous membranes. The disease lasts 10-15 days and disappears suddenly, but then there is a high probability of relapse.

Steven Johnson syndrome often manifests itself on the mucous membranes

Does erythema occur in children?

Erythema in children is a fairly common disease. When making a diagnosis, doctors prefer to mention erythema as a symptom of some infectious disease. In toddlers and older children, the disease proceeds differently. Infection is transmitted by airborne droplets. So, when using the same devices and toys, even through contacts with parents, it is possible to become infected even before the rash appears in the infected person. chronic diseases or blood diseases can provoke infection of others for a long period of time after treatment. Erythema multiforme at first it manifests itself as a common ARVI, which resembles initial stage any cold. Standard set of symptoms: heat, sore or sore throat, sneezing and irritation of the nasopharynx. After a few days, there are manifestations of a rash, in some patients this is accompanied by muscle pain. Professionals and parents can confuse erythema with any other disease, it is similar to other childhood illnesses provoked by viruses. How to identify infection with erythema infectiosum:

  • pain in the joints;
  • muscle pain;
  • lethargy, fatigue, weakness;
  • headache;
  • acute pain in the abdomen;
  • temperature 38° and above.

Cold symptoms can be noticed within 2-3 days of infection. The rash can come through and quickly disappear without being noticed. It usually appears on the 2-7th day. With an atypical course of the disease, the rash may not appear at all. In its usual manifestation, the rash goes through several stages of maturation.

It first appears on the cheeks and has a bright red or bright pink color, sometimes affects the frontal and chin parts, disappears after 2–5 days. Further, the rash spreads throughout the body, on the neck, torso, shoulders and forearms, shins and buttocks.

The spots become larger and have a pronounced round shape, itching appears. Duration this stage may be up to seven days. As a rule, at the last stage the rash completely disappears, but also with exposure to temperature, prolonged exposure to the sun or nervous shocks, the symptoms may return. Do not worry - this does not mean that your child is sick again, he is on the mend, but with minor complications. The treatment process is quite simple. For joint pain, it is necessary to lower the temperature and give an analgesic or antipyretic: drugs based on paracetamol are ideal. Provide rest and plenty of fluid intake. To prevent the child from scratching the rash, cut his nails. At severe itching baths at room temperature with special solutions, antihistamines and moisturizing lotions help. Treatment of erythema is aimed at minimizing complications. It is necessary to stop the first manifestations of the disease and prevent the rash from spreading with the help of antiseptics.

Erythema is not dangerous and does not lead to death, only in rare cases complications occur. Basically, the disease goes away as suddenly as it appears.

What is exudative erythema?

Exudative erythema multiforme is one of the clinical forms erythema, characterized acute course, the formation of a polymorphic rash on the skin and mucous membranes and a tendency to relapse (especially in the autumn and spring periods). The term is also used to refer to similar clinical manifestations rashes that develop due to an allergy to any medicine or under certain infectious diseases. Thus, two forms of exudative erythema are distinguished: infectious-allergic and toxic-allergic.

The disease is more common among young and middle-aged people.

Causes of exudative erythema

The causes of exudative erythema are not well understood. Most often, patients simultaneously with infectious-allergic exudative erythema are diagnosed with focal infections, which include sinusitis, tonsillitis, pulpitis, chronic appendicitis. Often a factor in the development of the disease becomes hypersensitivity to bacteria, streptococcus, coli and so on.

Toxic-allergic exudative erythema occurs mainly from individual intolerance to certain medications. These include barbiturates, amidoprine, sulfanilamide, tetracycline, and so on. They influence the development of the disease and autoimmune processes in the human body.

Symptoms of exudative erythema

Exudative erythema multiforme usually has an acute onset. Its first symptoms are fever, excruciating headache, general symptoms malaise (weakness, impaired appetite, muscle and joint pain), a sore throat may occur with. The rash usually appears on the second day. They are localized on the mucous membranes, skin and lips.

The rash is pinkish spots and reddish papules that grow rapidly up to two to three centimeters. They tend to merge. Usually, serous blisters appear in the center of the papule, which burst and form erosions. The rashes are painful, the patient feels a burning sensation or.

The rash is localized mainly on the skin of the feet and palms, on the folds of the limbs, forearms, knees, genitals, elbows and knees.

Appearing on the mucous membranes, the rash gives a person much more inconvenience, because, opening up, the blisters form very painful wounds that tend to merge. Such erosive areas can cover the entire oral mucosa and lips of a person. Sometimes the wounds are covered with a grayish-yellow coating, attempts to remove which cause parenchymal bleeding. At the same time, the patient suffers from severe salivation, pain, speech becomes difficult for him, and eating becomes impossible.

The rash on the skin usually lasts 10-15 days, after which it goes away on its own. The mucosal lesion has a less favorable course and disappears only in the fourth or sixth week.

The infectious-allergic form of exudative erythema is prone to seasonal relapses. The disease affects people mainly in spring and autumn.

The toxic-allergic form of the disease is not characterized by previous general symptoms or relapses. The manifestation of the disease depends only on the person's contact with the allergen.

Treatment of exudative erythema

Exudative erythema multiforme is always allergic reaction therefore, in order to avoid recurrence of the disease, it is necessary to eliminate all contact with allergens. At food allergies prescribe enterosorbents. If erythema occurs along with any secondary infection, the patient is prescribed antibiotics. In the treatment of exudative erythema, corticosteroids (in severe cases), vitamins (B, C), and potassium preparations are also used. Also apply antifungal drugs, painkillers (ointments, aerosols, solutions) and antiseptics.

The prognosis of treatment is favorable. Complications and deaths are possible only with the appearance of Stevens-Johnson syndrome. This is a severe variant of the course of exudative erythema, accompanied by prolonged fever, merging of erosions on the mucous membranes with the formation of a single erosive bleeding area. The disease can affect the eyes, causing keratitis and conjunctivitis. Complications of this process are myocarditis and meningoencephalitis, as a result of which death. Another option for a severe course