Erythema nodosum

1 - WHAT IS ERYTHEMA NODOSUM?

Erythema nodosum is an acute, painful condition often associated with fever, which can be a source of concern for patients. It is characterized by one or more hot, painful, firm, red bumps most commonly located on the legs. The bumps may be accompanied by fever, a general feeling of weakness, and muscle and/or joint pain. Erythema nodosum is an inflammation of the fatty layer of the skin.

2 - WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF ERYTHEMA NODOSUM?

Erythema nodosum is a reactional disorder for which there are several causes, the most common being a throat infection. Your doctor will order laboratory tests and x-rays to try to identify the cause of the disease.

3 - DON’T FORGET TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR IF ANY FOLLOWING APPLY TO YOU:

– pregnancy,

– use of oral contraception,

– medications,

– a previous throat infection,

– gastrointestinal symptoms,

– cough,

– canker sores,

– genital ulcerations,

– neurological symptoms,

– weight loss, etc.

4 - YOU SHOULD KNOW THAT:

– This condition is usually benign and resolves on its own without scarring, although new lesions may continue to appear.

– Rest is very important to speed healing and prevent early recurrence of new lesions.

5 - LINK

EADV leaflet published in 2019, produced by the EADV Vasculatis and Vasculopathy Task Force:

- Erythema nodosum