Erythema nodosum & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is erythema nodosum?

Erythema nodosum is a skin condition that causes swelling of a red or purple color. Swelling is most commonly found in the calf area of ​​the shin, but can occur anywhere on the body.

Erythema nodosum is the most common form of panniculitis, which is inflammation of the fat layer under the skin. This is often caused by an immune system response to an infection or a reaction to a drug you are taking.

Erythema nodosum occurs most often in people aged 20-40 years. Erythema nodosum can occur at any age regardless of gender. But indeed, women are reportedly 6 times more prone to developing this condition than men.

Signs & Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of erythema nodosum?

The main symptom of erythema nodosum is a red lump in the calf area. Sometimes, bumps can also appear on the thighs, arms, chest, and face. The size of the lump can vary, ranging from 4-11 cm. The number can also vary between people, it can be only two or up to 50 in the whole body.

The lump of erythema nodosum is painful and may feel hot. At first the lump is red and then turns purple, like a bruise as it heals. This lump also deflates as it is about to heal. The lump can last for about 2 weeks. New lumps can continue to appear for up to 6 weeks.

Other symptoms include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Sore foot
• Lymph nodes in the chest swell
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Losing weight
• Stomach ache
• Diarrhea

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

Cause

What causes erythema nodosum?

The cause of erythema nodosum is still unknown. Lumps can appear after you have an infection or you have recently taken certain medications. Doctors believe that this is due to the over-response of the immune system to attack by bacteria or other foreign substances that enter the body.

The risk factors include:

• Infections, such as strep throat or tuberculosis.
• Reactions to antibiotics (sulfonamide and penicillin), salicylates, iodide, bromide, and birth control pills.
• Sarcoidosis, inflammation throughout the body.
• Coccidioidomycosis, lung and upper respiratory tract infection.
• Irritable bowel inflammation (IBS), colitis, or Crohn's disease.
• Pregnancy
• Cancer (rare)

Diagnosis & Treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is erythema nodosum diagnosed?

Initially, the doctor will perform a basic physical examination as well as ask questions about your medical history. The doctor may also ask what medicines you have been / are currently taking, and if you have recently recovered from an infection.

You may be referred for blood tests to check for inflammation in the body. Blood tests can also be done to find out if you have tuberculosis or other infections. Your doctor can also examine a sample of your throat tissue to find out if you have a sore throat.

Other tests to diagnose erythema nodosum are:

• Urine test
• Chest X-ray
• Stool examination

The doctor may also take a sample of the fatty tissue under your skin, to be tested in the laboratory for any abnormalities.

How is erythema nodosum treated?

If the lump is caused by a bacterial infection, the doctor will prescribe an antibiotic medication. If the lump is caused by medication, stopping the dose will restore the condition. However, talk to your doctor first before stopping any medication.

In the meantime, these drugs can help you deal with the pain:

• NSAIDs, such as aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen. But don't use these medicines if you have Crohn's disease, as they can make the symptoms worse.
• Potassium iodide
• Oral steroids

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat erythema nodosum?

At home, these few tips can help you relieve the symptoms of the pain.

• Rest your leg by lifting it up (higher than your heart) and wearing a special stocking while the lump heals.
• Avoid tight or harsh clothing, which can irritate the bumps.

Please discuss with your doctor for more information. If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.