erythema nodosum

Erythema Nodosum: An Overview

Erythema nodosum is a type of inflammatory disorder that affects the subcutaneous fat layer beneath the skin, resulting in tender or painful lumps. These lumps are typically red or violet in color and can appear on various parts of the body, but most commonly on the anterior shins.

Characteristics:

• Tender or painful lumps under the skin
• Red or violet in color
• Typically appears on the anterior shins, but can occur on other areas as well
• Can be accompanied by fever, fatigue, and other systemic symptoms

Causes and Triggers:

While the exact cause of erythema nodosum is often unknown (idiopathic), it can be triggered by various factors such as: * Infections (bacterial or viral) * Medications (e.g., antibiotics, hormones) * Hormonal changes * Autoimmune disorders * Other underlying medical conditions

Symptoms and Treatment:

The symptoms of erythema nodosum usually resolve on their own within a few weeks to months. However, treatment may be necessary to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent complications. This can include: * Pain relief medications (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen) * Anti-inflammatory medications * Antibiotics or antiviral medications if an underlying infection is suspected * Rest and relaxation

Prognosis:

In most cases, erythema nodosum resolves without any long-term consequences. However, in some instances, it can be a sign of an underlying condition that requires further investigation and treatment.

References: 1. [3] Erythema nodosum is a type of inflammation in the layer of fat right underneath your skin. 2. [4] Erythema nodosum is a form of panniculitis (inflammation of the fat layer beneath the skin) that produces tender red or violet bumps (nodules) under the skin, ... 3. [7] Erythema nodosum is a condition that causes painful patches of skin that look red or darker than the surrounding skin. 4. [8] Erythema nodosum (EN) is an acute, nodular, erythematous eruption that usually is limited to the extensor aspects of the lower legs. 5. [10] Result: noun | skin condition characterized by tender red nodules on the shins and legs

Erythema Nodosum Signs and Symptoms

Erythema nodosum is a skin condition characterized by the appearance of painful, red lumps or nodules on the skin. The symptoms can vary from person to person, but here are some common signs and symptoms:

• Red, tender bumps on the shins: These are the most common symptoms of erythema nodosum, appearing as painful, red lumps on the skin of the legs, particularly on the shins [1].
• Fever: Many people with erythema nodosum experience a low-grade fever, which can range from mild to severe [2].
• Joint pain: Some individuals may also experience joint pain, particularly in the knees, ankles, and wrists [3].
• Enlarged lymph nodes in the chest: In some cases, the lymph nodes in the chest may become enlarged, leading to a feeling of tenderness or discomfort [1].
• Lumps under the skin that may be warm and tender and look like a bruise: These lumps can appear anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the legs [2].
• Purplish coloration: Within a few days, these lumps may become purplish in color and eventually fade to a brownish, flat patch over several weeks [3].

It's essential to note that not everyone with erythema nodosum will experience all of these symptoms. If you suspect you have this condition, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References: [1] - Context result 1 [2] - Context result 2 [3] - Context result 3

Erythema nodosum (EN) is a condition that causes red to purple bumps to form on the skin, most often on the shins [4]. Diagnostic tests for EN are aimed at confirming the clinical diagnosis and identifying any underlying systemic diseases.

Common diagnostic tests for erythema nodosum:

• Complete blood count with differential (CBC) to evaluate the number of white blood cells and their types [6]
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) to measure inflammation in the body [1], [6]
• C-reactive protein (CRP) levels to assess inflammation and infection [1], [6]
• Chest X-ray to look for signs of tuberculosis or sarcoidosis [2], [5]
• Throat swab to check for infections such as streptococcus or other bacterial causes [3], [9]

Additional tests may be ordered:

• Blood tests to rule out underlying conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or thyroid disorders
• Skin testing for tuberculosis and other infections
• Biopsy of a skin nodule (incisional wedge biopsy) in cases where the diagnosis is uncertain or to confirm the presence of EN [8]

It's worth noting that the diagnosis of EN can often be made on clinical grounds alone, and biopsy is usually reserved for diagnostically difficult cases [3].

Erythema nodosum is a type of skin inflammation that can be caused by various factors, including infections, medications, and underlying medical conditions. When it comes to treating erythema nodosum with medication, the goal is to alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and address any underlying causes.

Common Medications Used:

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and indomethacin. They can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation [8].
• Corticosteroids: Systemic corticosteroids, such as prednisone, may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. However, they are seldom necessary in self-limited disease [5].
• Potassium Iodide: This medication has been used to alleviate symptoms, but its effectiveness is not well established.
• Antibiotics: If the disorder is caused by a streptococcal infection, antibiotics like penicillin or cephalosporins may be prescribed [3].

Other Medications:

• Hydroxychloroquine, cyclosporin A, and other immunomodulatory agents have been used in some cases to treat erythema nodosum.
• Steroids: In severe cases, systemic corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms [4].

Important Considerations:

• Medication treatment should be individualized based on the underlying cause of erythema nodosum and the severity of symptoms.
• It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References: [1] - Not applicable [2] - Not applicable [3] Context #3 [4] Context #4 [5] Context #5 [8] Context #8

Erythema nodosum (EN) is a type of panniculitis, an inflammatory disorder affecting subcutaneous fat. It presents as tender red nodules on the anterior shins. When diagnosing EN, it's essential to consider differential diagnoses that can mimic its symptoms.

Differential Diagnoses:

• Erythema induratum (nodular vasculitis): This condition is characterized by the formation of nodules on the skin, similar to EN. However, histopathology shows a septal panniculitis without vasculitis [2].
• Superficial thrombophlebitis: This condition involves inflammation of superficial veins, which can present with red, swollen, and tender areas on the skin.
• Other forms of panniculitis: Panniculitis is a broader term that encompasses various conditions affecting subcutaneous fat. EN-like lesions have been reported in conditions such as Behçet's disease (BD) and nodular vasculitis [8].

Key Considerations:

When considering differential diagnoses for EN, it's crucial to evaluate the patient's medical history, symptoms, and histopathological findings.

• Medical History: Identify any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the development of EN or its differential diagnoses.
• Symptoms: Carefully assess the patient's symptoms, including the location, size, shape, color, and tenderness of the nodules.
• Histopathology: Examine histopathological findings to determine the presence of septal panniculitis without vasculitis or other characteristic features.

References:

• [2] D Kroshinsky · Cited by 10 — The characteristic histologic finding in EN is a septal panniculitis without vasculitis.
• [8] by DM Pérez-Garza · 2021 · Cited by 10 — EN-like lesions have been reported in conditions such as Behçet's disease (BD) and nodular vasculitis.