Erythema multiforme
Causes of erythema multiforme
The cause oferythema multiforme is often unclear, but some cases are the result of a reactionto an infection or medication.
The condition can't be passed from person to person.
Infections
Most cases are caused by a viral infection often the herpes simplex (cold sore) virus. This virus usuallylies inactive in the body, but it can become reactivated from time to time.
Some people willget a cold sore a few days before the rash starts.
Erythema multiforme can also be triggered bymycoplasma bacteria, a type of bacteria that sometimes cause chest infections .
Medication
Medication can occasionally cause the more severeform oferythema multiforme. Possible medication triggersinclude:
- antibiotics ,such assulfonamides, tetracyclines, amoxicillin and ampicillin
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) , such as ibuprofen
- anticonvulsants (used to treat epilepsy ), such as phenytoin and barbiturates
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out about erythema multiforme, a skin reaction that usually causes a rash for a few weeks.
Symptoms of erythema multiforme
Most people with erythema multiforme will just have a rash,but other symptoms can alsosometimesoccur. Rash The rash comes on suddenly and develops over a few days. It tends to start on the handsor f
When to get medical advice
See your GP as soon as possible if you think you or your child may haveerythema multiforme. Your GP may be able to diagnoseit just by looking at the rash, but they can refer you to askin specialist (
Causes of erythema multiforme
The cause oferythema multiforme is often unclear, but some cases are the result of a reactionto an infection or medication. The condition can't be passed from person to person. Infections Most case
Treatments for erythema multiforme
Treatment aims to tackle the underlying cause of the condition, relieve your symptoms and stop yourskin becoming infected. Your doctor may recommend: stopping any medication that may be triggeringy
Complications of erythema multiforme
Most people with erythema multiforme make a full recovery within a few weeks. There aren't usually any further problems and the skin normally heals without scarring . But there is a risk the conditio
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