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Erythema nodosum    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment

Definition:

Erythema nodosum is a disorder including formation of characteristic painful, red skin nodules.

Causes and Risks

Erythema nodosum is characterized by tender, reddened nodules, usually on the front of the legs. It is more common in women.

The exact cause of the nodules is unknown. Some cases may be associated with infections such as streptococcus, coccidioidomycosis, fungal infections, tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, syphilis, cat-scratch disease, tularemia, Yersinia infection, leptospirosis, psittacosis, histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, and mononucleosis (EBV).

Sensitivity to drugs such as oral contraceptives, penicillin, sulfonamides, sulfones, barbiturates, hydantoin, phenacetin, salicylates, iodides, or progestin may be associated with other cases. Other associated disorders include leukemia, sarcoidosis, rheumatic fever, and ulcerative colitis.

Erythema nodosum characteristically appears on the shins, although it may occur on other areas of the body (buttocks, calves, ankles, thighs and upper extremities). The lesions begin as flat, but firm hot red painful lumps (approximately an inch across). Within a few days they may become purplish then over several weeks fade to a brownish flat patch. Systemic findings may include fever and malaise.

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