Erythema multiforme minor

Erythema multiforme minor
Classification and external resources
ICD-9-CM	695.11

Erythema (redness) multiforme (EM) is usually a reaction of the skin and mucous membranes that occurs suddenly. It appears as a symmetrical rash and may include the mucous membrane lesions. This means that the body is sensitive to something that causes the skin and mucous membranes to react. The more common mild form is refer to as EM minor. It consists of a skin rash that involve no more than one mucosal surface. The sudden onset will progress rapidly as symmetrical lesions with circular color changes in some or all of the lesions. Rash will spread towards center or trunk of the body. Evenly distributed bumps on the skin become classic iris or target lesions. They have bright red borders and small white bumps in the center. The cause of EM appears to be a highly sensitive reaction that can be triggered by a variety of causes. The causes can include bacterial, viral or chemical products, such as antibiotics - specifically penicillins or cephalosporins. This reaction is an allergic reaction and is in no way contagious. ^[1]:140

Erythema multiforme minus is sometimes divided into papular and vesiulobullous forms.^[2]

See also

• Erythema
• Diascopy
• Erythema multiforme
• List of cutaneous conditions

References

1. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. (10th ed.). Saunders. ISBN 0-7216-2921-0.
2. Daniel J. Trozak; Dan J. Tennenhouse (1 October 2005). Dermatology skills for primary care: an illustrated guide. Humana Press. pp. 161–. ISBN 978-1-58829-489-0. Retrieved 5 June 2010.