Erythema multiforme could be a hypersensitivity reaction usually cause by infections, most typically herpes simplex virus (HSV). It presents with a skin eruption characterised by a typical target lesion. There is mucous membrane involvement. It is acute and self-limiting, usually dealing with without complications.
Erythema multiforme is classified into major and minor forms and is now noticed as distinct from Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN).
Panel test:
No available diagnostic laboratory tests to help in making a diagnosis of EM. Laboratory abnormalities, such as increasing in ESR, white blood cell count, and liver enzyme levels, can be observe in cases of serious disease. A serum antinuclear antibody (ANA) test may be helpful in cases in which cutaneous lupus erythematosus (Rowell’s syndrome) is an attention.
References:
- French LE, Prins C. Erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis. In: Dermatology, Bolognia JL, Jorizzo JL, Rapini RP (Eds), Elsevier Limited, 2008. p.287.
- Roujeau JC. Re-evaluation of ‘drug-induced’ erythema multiforme in the medical literature. Br J Dermatol 2016; 175:650.
- Roujeau JC. Re-evaluation of ‘drug-induced’ erythema multiforme in the medical literature. Br J Dermatol 2016; 175:650.
