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Suggest Treatment For Erythema Multiforme
Question: I developed a full body rash which the dermatologist called erythema multiforme. that is simply a descriptive term, but gives no hint as to cause. The rash lasted over a week, and may have responded to the prescribed prednisone or just tincture of time. the itching was so intense I could not sleep and lost a week's work! This was several weeks ago. I still have unpredictable bouts of itching but not nearly so intense. I think it not an allergy because the rash started at a point (on buttocks) and then radiated from there until all but my face had rash. An allergic reaction I think would not behave in this way.
I could give more information that might be helpful. I am 66 years old.
Any ideas?
I could give more information that might be helpful. I am 66 years old.
Any ideas?
Brief Answer:
It is an immune reaction triggered by various factors
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to healthcaremagic
Erythema multiforme is basically an immune related disorder that can be triggered by various factors.The most common ones being infections like herpes virus infection, other viral infections, certain drugs, contact allergy, specific skin diseases like connective tissue diseases and malignancies rarely.
In 50 percent of the cases no known provoking factor can be found.
Since you have mentioned about increased leukocyte count it might have been triggered by some infection in your body but it is difficult to comment which infection at this stage. It responds well to prednisone as in your case.
Sometimes itching takes a longer time to resolve after disappearance of the rashes. I would suggest use to take antihistamines like chlorpheniramine or levocetrizine for the same for few more days.
Moreover you haven't mentioned about any medication history, any ailment you are having or any other systemic complaints experienced by you during the erythema multiforme episode.
I hope to have answered your query.
I would be happy to clarify any further doubts.
Regards
Dr Asmeet
It is an immune reaction triggered by various factors
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to healthcaremagic
Erythema multiforme is basically an immune related disorder that can be triggered by various factors.The most common ones being infections like herpes virus infection, other viral infections, certain drugs, contact allergy, specific skin diseases like connective tissue diseases and malignancies rarely.
In 50 percent of the cases no known provoking factor can be found.
Since you have mentioned about increased leukocyte count it might have been triggered by some infection in your body but it is difficult to comment which infection at this stage. It responds well to prednisone as in your case.
Sometimes itching takes a longer time to resolve after disappearance of the rashes. I would suggest use to take antihistamines like chlorpheniramine or levocetrizine for the same for few more days.
Moreover you haven't mentioned about any medication history, any ailment you are having or any other systemic complaints experienced by you during the erythema multiforme episode.
I hope to have answered your query.
I would be happy to clarify any further doubts.
Regards
Dr Asmeet
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Yogesh D
Answered by
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