Erythema Nodosum
Erythema nodosum is a skin condition characterised by painful swollen red or purple bumps most commonly on the shins associated with
- fever
- fatigue
- joint pain
- pain in the legs
- ankle swelling
- enlarged lymph nodes in the chest
- cough
- sore throat
- weight loss
- stomach pain
- diarrhoea
Other parts of the body also affected sometimes. it is a self limiting condition commonly seen in people ages 12-20 yrs & mainly females affected more.
Causes :
In about 30 to 50% of all cases, the cause is not determined
Hepatitis C, cat scratch disease, Yersinia, Streptococcal infection, Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, and Tuberculosis.
Aautoimmune disorders, such as Bechet’s Disease, Chlamydia, Syphilis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and Sarcoidosis.
Cancers that have been linked to causing erythema nodosum include Non-Hodgkin disease, pancreatic cancer and carcinoid tumors.
Ulcerative colitis, leukemia, and rheumatic fever have also been linked to this skin condition. Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, Penicillin, Bromides, Sulfonamides, Progestin, and hepatitis B vaccination can also cause erythema nodosum.
Treatments
Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, potassium iodide, oral steroids help to manage pain and other symptoms until the lumps heal.
Assessment & proper treatment of the underlying disease which causes EN.
Prevention
To prevent erythema nodosum, one should have proper hygiene. This includes washing hands often with a good anti-bacterial soap. Avoid sharing utensils, food, and drink with others as well to avoid infections. Avoiding the sun when taking certain medications can also help to prevent erythema nodosum.
Dr Sachin k Maurya, Medical Director, Antiaging skin clinic Group