Erythema multiforme is caused by a cell-mediated immune response, and infections are associated with 90% of cases. 6 Although herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 is the most commonly identified etiology, HSV-2 also has been shown to cause erythema multiforme8 (Figure 1).
Is erythema multiforme by HSV?
Erythema multiforme is an acute mucocutaneous hypersensitivity reaction with various etiological factors, including herpes simplex virus, medications, autoimmune diseases, and malignancies, but the most common cause is infection by herpes simplex virus.
What causes erythema multiforme minor?
Erythema multiforme minor is regarded as being commonly triggered by herpes simplex virus (HSV) (types 1 and 2), and HSV is the most common cause in young adults; in fact, many instances of idiopathic erythema multiforme minor may be precipitated by subclinical HSV infection.
Can erythema multiforme minor become major?
Erythema multiforme can be minor or major. Erythema multiforme minor is usually a mild condition that causes a skin rash.
How long does erythema multiforme minor last?
The skin condition may happen over and over again, and usually lasts for 2 to 4 weeks each time. Most often, this disorder is caused by the herpes simplex virus.
Does Valtrex help erythema multiforme?
Prophylaxis may be required for 6-12 months or longer; if unresponsive, continuous therapy with valacyclovir (500 mg bid) has been reported to be effective. Alternative treatments for erythema multiforme include dapsone, antimalarials, azathioprine, cimetidine, and thalidomide.
What is the prevalence of erythema multiforme (EM) due to herpes simplex virus (HSV)?
It is estimated that 20-40% of cases of erythema multiforme are secondary to herpes simplex virus infection. Both HSV 1 and HSV 2 trigger the erythema multiforme lesions. Prevalence of oral EM varies from 35% to 65% among patients with skin lesions.
What causes erythema multiforme (EM)?
Infections are probably associated with at least 90% of cases of erythema multiforme. The single most common trigger for developing erythema multiforme is herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection, usually herpes labialis (cold sore on the lip) and less often genital herpes. HSV type 1 is more commonly associated than type 2.
What is erythema multiforme (iris lesion)?
The typical target lesion (also called iris lesion) of erythema multiforme has a sharp margin, regular round shape and three concentric colour zones: The outermost ring is bright red. Atypical target lesions show just two zones and/or an indistinct border. The eruption is polymorphous (many forms), hence the ‘multiforme’ in the name.
What is the difference between erythema multiforme and Stevens-Johnson syndrome?
Erythema multiforme lesions are typically fixed for a minimum of seven days, whereas individual urticarial lesions often resolve within one day. Erythema multiforme can be confused with the more serious condition, Stevens-Johnson syndrome; however, Stevens-Johnson syndrome usually contains widespread erythematous or purpuric macules with blisters.