Abstract
Erythema nodosum is a type of inflammation of the fat tissue beneath the skin. It is a skin reaction that can be present from many different causes, as noted below. Your physician can diagnose this condition with a complete history and physical examination, although a skin biopsy may be needed in cases that do not present normally. Erythema nodosum occurs more often in women than men.
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SYMPTOMS
Erythema nodosum usually presents as red, warm, tender and immovable bumps that arise on the shins. There is no break in the skin present. They are normally on both sides of the body. They can also appear in other areas such as the arms, elbows, knees, thighs, calves and buttocks. The bumps can range from a half-inch to several inches in diameter. Sometimes, fevers, joint pain, fatigue, or upper respiratory/flu-like symptoms will happen before the bumps occur. The bumps can develop over several days and may be seen with redness or swelling at the involved sites. The redness often changes to a more bruise-like color such as purple, brown, or yellow as the bumps age.
CAUSES:
Infections, such as Strep (most common) or tuberculosis
Certain medications, such as birth control pills and sulfa drugs
Inflammatory conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or sarcoidosis
Blood cancers, such as lymphoma or leukemia
It is possible for no cause to be found during or after a case of erythema nodosum
Pregnancy
SOURCE(S): Up to Date – Erythema Nodosum, American Osteopathic College of Dermatology – Erythema Nodosum, Medscape- Erythema Nodosum
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