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
• iodides
• 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. Symptoms may include:

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

Young adults are particularly susceptible to erythema nodosum. The symptoms of erythema nodosum may resemble other skin conditions. Always consult your physician for a 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 cannot always be identified. Drug-induced erythema nodosum can usually be diagnosed by careful elimination of the drug causing the reaction.

Treatment for erythema nodosum:

Specific treatment for erythema nodosum will be determined by your physician based on:

• your age, overall health, and medical history
• extent of the condition
• your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the condition
• your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

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

  The Dermatology Programs and Services at Rush Dermatology specialists at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago offer comprehensive care for common and rare skin, hair and nail diseases. Offering care for people of all ages, our dermatologists are leading authorities in skin care whose expertise draws patients from all over the Midwest. The dermatology team at Rush offers safe and innovative treatments based on years of experience as well as the latest scientific research. Click here to visit our Department of Dermatology. Services Provided Comprehensive dermatology services for adults and children include: Innovative treatments for various dermatologic conditions such as Acne Eczema (atopic dermatitis) Psoriasis Vitiligo State-of-the-art treatments for all forms of skin cancer include: The CTCL Clinic provides multidisciplinary care for people with a rare type of cancer called cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). Treatments include extracorporeal photophoresis, one of the most effective treatments for patients with this disease. The Melanoma Surveillance Clinic provides innovative intervention and treatment strategies for melanoma, including the use of photographic surveillance to track high-risk moles over time. Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) Clinic provides Mohs surgery, which has the highest cure rate of any procedure for skin cancer. During Mohs surgery, the surgeon uses a microscope to remove the very last traces of cancer cells. The Cosmetic Dermatology Program provides: Antiaging therapies, such as Botox and collagen injections. Chemical peels and microdermabrasion to make skin smoother and improve acne, wrinkles and skin discoloration. Advanced laser therapy to decrease excess hair growth and reduce lines and scars. Varicose vein treatments, including laser therapy and sclerotherapy, which involves the injection of special solutions into the veins to reduce their appearance. In addition to the services above, the department tests the efficacy of new treatments for different skin diseases through its Clinical Pharmacology Unit. Clinical studies are complemented by a basic science laboratory, where investigators are conducting state-of-the-art research on mast cell biology and mastocytosis. Finding a specialist at Rush: To find a dermatologist at Rush click here. Or make an appointment with a doctor at Rush by calling our toll-free physician referral number: (888) 352-RUSH. To reach the hospital operator, call (312) 942-5000. If you have difficulty hearing, call (312) 942-2207 (TTY/TTD).