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Erythema multiforme

EM; Erythema multiforme minor; Erythema multiforme major; Erythema multiforme minor - erythema multiforme von Hebra; Acute bullous disorder - erythema multiforme; Herpes simplex - erythema multiforme

Erythema multiforme (EM) is an acute skin reaction that comes from an infection or another trigger. EM is a self-limiting disease. This means it usually resolves on its own without treatment.

Images

Erythema multiforme on the hands
Erythema multiforme, circular lesions - hands
Erythema multiforme, target lesions on the palm
Erythema multiforme on the leg
Erythema multiforme on the hand
Exfoliation following erythroderma

Causes

EM is a type of allergic reaction. In most cases, it occurs in response to an infection. In rare cases, it is caused by certain medicines or body-wide (systemic) illness.

Infections that may lead to EM include:

Medicines that may cause EM include:

Systemic illnesses that are associated with EM include:

EM occurs mostly in adults 20 to 40 years old. People with EM may have family members who have had EM as well.

Symptoms

Symptoms of EM include:

Skin sores may:

Other symptoms may include:

There are two forms of EM:

Exams and Tests

Your health care provider will look at your skin to diagnose EM. You'll be asked about your medical history, such as recent infections or medicines you've taken.

Tests may include:

Treatment

EM usually goes away on its own with or without treatment.

Your provider will have you stop taking any medicines that may be causing the problem. But, don't stop taking medicines on your own without talking to your provider first.

Treatment may include:

Good hygiene may help prevent secondary infections (infections that occur from treating the first infection).

Use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding excessive exposure to sun may prevent the recurrence of EM.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Mild forms of EM usually get better in 2 to 6 weeks, but the problem may return.

Possible Complications

Complications of EM may include:

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your provider right away if you have symptoms of EM.

Related Information

Allergic reactions
Rashes
Bullae
Myocarditis
Cellulitis
Sepsis

References

Duvic M. Urticaria, drug hypersensitivity rashes, nodules and tumors, and atrophic diseases. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 411.

Holland KE. Acquired rashes in the older child. In: Kleigman RM, Toth H, Bordini BJ, Basel D, eds. Nelson Pediatric Symptom-Based Diagnosis. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 61.

Lalor L, Shah KN. Urticaria and erythema multiforme. In: Long SS, ed. Principles and Practice of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 71.

Rubenstein JB, Spektor T. Conjunctivitis: infectious and noninfectious. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 4.6.

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Review Date: 11/18/2022  

Reviewed By: Elika Hoss, MD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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