Erythema Nodosum: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Erythema nodosum is a skin condition characterized by painful, red bumps that appear on the legs, arms, and other parts of the body. It's a type of inflammation that affects the fatty layer beneath the skin, causing tender nodules to form.
Causes: Erythema nodosum can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, medications, and underlying medical conditions. Some of the most common causes include streptococcal infections, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
- Infections: Bacterial and viral infections are some of the most common causes of erythema nodosum. Streptococcal infections, such as strep throat, are a common cause of the condition. Other infections that can cause erythema nodosum include tuberculosis, hepatitis B and C, and fungal infections.
- Medications: A number of medications can cause erythema nodosum as a side effect. These include antibiotics, oral contraceptives, and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and aspirin.
- Underlying Medical Conditions: Erythema nodosum can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, such as inflammatory bowel disease, sarcoidosis, or lupus. It can also occur in response to certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma.
Symptoms: The primary symptom of erythema nodosum is the appearance of tender, red bumps on the skin. These bumps can be accompanied by fever, fatigue, and joint pain. In some cases, the bumps may also be accompanied by swelling in the legs or arms.
Treatment: Treatment for erythema nodosum depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In many cases, the condition will resolve on its own without treatment. However, if the condition is caused by an underlying infection or medical condition, treatment will be focused on addressing that underlying issue. In some cases, medications such as corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
If you are experiencing symptoms of erythema nodosum, it's important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause of your condition and receive appropriate treatment.