Erythema Nodosum

Question 1

What is Erythema Nodosum?

Answer 1

• It is a panniculitis, an inflammatory disorder that affects the subcutaneous fat
• Presents as red nodules on the anterior shins

Question 2

What are the causes of Erythema Nodosum?

Answer 2

• Throat infections (Group A beta-haemolytic streptococcus)
• TB
• Yersinia infection
• Chlamydia
• Fungal infection
• Parasitic infection
• HIV
• Sarcoidosis
• Malignancy (Lymphoma/ Leukaemia)
• IBD
• Sarcoidosis

Question 3

What are the Clinical Features of Erythema Nodosum?

Answer 3

• Discrete bilateral erythematous subcutaneous tender nodules
• Accompanied by Fever and Joint Pain
• Lesions continue to appear for 1/2 weeks and leave bruise like discolourations as they resolves
• Lesions do not ulcerate and resolve without atrophy or scarring
• Shins are the most common site

Question 4

What is the treatment for Erythema Nodosum?

Answer 4

• NSAIDs
• Systemic corticosteroids
• Oral Potassium Iodide