Erythema multiforme is a skin reaction usually due to an infection or a medication. Erythema multiforme gets its name because it takes different forms on your skin, such as a rash, raised bumps or blisters. These lesions can come and go unexpectedly and can affect different parts of your body, including your eyes, mouth and genitals.
What are the symptoms of erythema multiforme?
Symptoms that affect your skin could include:
A red to purple rash that causes your skin to puff up (swell) and be painful to the touch.
Pimple-like blisters on your skin or inside of your mouth.
Round mark on your skin that looks like a bulls-eye on a target, with a dark center and a pale ring around it.
No, erythema multiforme isn’t contagious. Your symptoms, especially the lesions, blisters or rash on your skin, can’t spread from person to person. If a virus or bacteria caused your symptoms, the virus or bacteria can spread to other people, but another person might not experience symptoms of erythema multiforme.
How is erythema multiforme treated?
Treatment for erythema multiforme isn’t always necessary, as symptoms can resolve on their own. If you need treatment, it could include:
Applying topical anesthetics or oral numbing medicine for pain.
Eating a soft or liquid diet if lesions in your mouth make eating difficult.
Rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution.
Taking antibiotics or antiviral medications if you have an infection.
Stopping a medication that causes erythema multiforme.
What medications treat erythema multiforme?
Medications can help treat recurring symptoms of erythema multiforme, especially if symptoms arise after a herpes flare. Common medicines to treat erythema multiforme include:
Follow your provider’s treatment plan to reduce your symptoms. Try not to scratch your skin because your fingernails can scratch the lesions and break them open, which could cause an infection. To prevent itching, use a topical cream or ointment to soothe your skin.
While it may be painful to eat or drink, make sure you eat and drink regularly to prevent malnutrition or dehydration. Change your diet to include liquids and/or soft foods. Avoid foods that are hot in temperature, acidic or spicy to prevent irritation. If you have trouble eating, contact your provider.
How is erythema multiforme diagnosed?
Your provider will diagnose erythema multiforme after learning more about your symptoms and medical history, as well as doing a physical exam. Your provider will also diagnose erythema multiforme based on characteristics of your lesions that include:
Size.
Shape.
Color.
Distance between each lesion (distribution).
Involvement of your eyes, mouth or genitals.
Your provider may need to perform a skin biopsy to diagnose erythema multiforme.
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