Erythema Multiforme: Understanding Risk Factors and Causes

Erythema multiforme is a skin disorder caused by an allergic reaction to certain types of medications. This condition can cause serious complications if left untreated.

Risk Factors

• Those who take certain medications are more at risk than others of developing erythema multiforme. According to Medline Plus, these medications include penicillins, phenytoin, sulfonamides, and barbiturates. Other risk factors include certain infections such as mycoplasma and herpes simplex.

Causes

• The exact cause for this condition is unknown. Medline plus states that it is believed that the allergic reaction causes damage to the skin tissues and blood vessels, causing the skin disorder. Herpes simplex and mycoplasm are the most common triggers for this.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of this condition include a fever, itching, feeling ill, skin lesions, bloodshot eyes, dry eyes, eye pain, mouth sores, and joint aches.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis of this condition includes looking for the appearance of skin lesions and a skin lesion biopsy.

Treatment

• Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition. Medications that control the spread of the lesions and lessen the symptoms are available. Antibiotics may also be needed for a more severe case of erythema multiforme.