What is Erythema Nodosum
Erythema nodosum is a skin condition in which patches of fat under the skin of the lower legs become inflamed. This causes painful bumps (nodules) to form.
What are the causes?
Common causes of this condition include:
- Infections.
- Certain medicines, especially birth control pills, penicillin, and sulfa medicines.
Other causes include:
- Pregnancy.
- Certain inflammatory conditions, including Lupus, Crohn’s disease, and thyroid conditions.
In some cases, the cause may not be known.
What increases the risk?
This condition is more likely to develop in young adult women.
What are the signs or symptoms?
The main symptom of this condition is large nodules that look like raised bruises and are tender to the touch. These nodules usually appear on the shins, but they may also appear on the arms or the trunk. They gradually change in color from pink to brown, and they leave a dark mark that clears up in several months.
Other symptoms include:
- Fever.
- Fatigue.
- Joint pain.
- Itchiness.
How is this diagnosed?
This condition is diagnosed based on symptoms. To find the underlying condition that caused the erythema nodosum, your health care provider may also do a physical exam, X-rays, and blood tests.
How is this treated?
Treatment for this condition depends on the cause. The nodules usually go away with treatment of the underlying condition. Any pain or discomfort may be treated with:
- Anti-inflammatory medicines.
- Bed rest.
- Raising (elevating) the affected area.
- Cool compresses.
In some cases, steroids and potassium iodide tablets may be given.
Follow these instructions at home:
- Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
- Stay in bed for as long as directed by your health care provider.
- Until your symptoms go away, limit any exercising that makes you breathe harder and faster (vigorous).
- Elevate the affected leg as directed by your health care provider.
- Apply cool compresses to the affected area as directed by your health care provider.
Contact a health care provider if:
- Your symptoms are not improving.
- You have a fever that does not go away.
Get help right away if:
- Your condition gets worse.
- Your pain gets worse.
- You have a sore throat.
- You vomit repeatedly.
