Dermatology

Skin Inflammation (Rashes)

Erythema Nodosum

What is erythema nodosum?

Erythema nodosum is characterized by tender, red bumps, usually found on the shins. Quite often, erythema nodosum is not a separate disease, but, rather, a sign of some other disease, or of a sensitivity to a drug.

Diseases that can cause erythema nodosum:

streptococcal infections
sarcoidosis (inflammation of the lymph nodes and other organs)
leprosy
coccidioidomycosis (infection of the upper respiratory tract and lungs)
histoplasmosis (an infectious pulmonary disease)
tuberculosis
psittacosis (a flu-like disease)
lymphogranuloma venereum (a venereal infection)
ulcerative colitis

Drugs that can cause erythema nodosum:

antibiotics containing sulfa
bromides
idodides
oral contraceptives

What are the symptoms of erythema nodosum?

The following are the most common symptoms of erythema nodosum. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently:

raised bruises on shins
fever
joint pain
enlarged lymph nodes in chest

Young adults are particularly susceptible to erythema nodosum -- the symptoms of which may resemble other dermatologic conditions. Consult a physician for diagnosis.

How is erythema nodosum diagnosed?

A biopsy (removal of tissue for examination under a microscope) of a bump can usually confirm the diagnosis. However, the exact cause can not always be identified. Drug-caused erythema nodosum can usually be diagnosed by careful elimination of the drug causing it.

Treatment for erythema nodosum:
Specific treatment for erythema nodosum will be determined by your physician based on the cause of the disorder and may include:

antibiotics
treatment of underlying cause
bed rest to relieve pain
aspirin
corticosteroids

This page was last updated on: January 31, 2008.

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