Erythema Nodosum

Erythema nodosum is a condition in which the fat within your skin becomes inflamed. It’s characterized by bumps (nodules) on your shins. This can be a reactive process to an underlying cause. Erythema nodosum is presumed to be a hypersensitivity reaction and may occur in association with several systemic diseases or drug therapies, or it may be idiopathic.
Manage the symptoms by resting, leg elevation, and taking anti-inflammatory medications under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Symptoms

Skin rash and redness

  • At buttocks

  • At legs not feet

  • At upper extremity except hand, At face

  • Tender

  • Painful

  • Warm

common

Pain in ankle region without achilles tendon

or Joint pain

  • Knees, At wrist

common

Ankle joint swelling

or Enlarged knee joint

or Enlarged wrist

common

Fever

  • Greater than or equal to 38°C (100.4°F), Less than 38°C (100.4°F)

common

Fatigue

Joint is sore to touch

  • Ankle is sore to touch, Knee hurts when touched

Joint stiffness

  • Limited ankle movement, Difficulty moving knee, Difficulty moving wrist

Weight loss

Risk factors

Sarcoidosis

or Recent upper respiratory tract infection

or Tuberculosis

or Inflammation of the colon

Pregnancy

Treatment
Treatment varies for each person diagnosed with erythema nodosum and depends on what caused your symptoms. In most patients, erythema nodosum is a self-limited disease and requires only symptomatic relief using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), cool wet compresses, elevation, and bed rest. Treatment could include: Managing or treating any underlying conditions or infections. Stop taking medicine that caused your symptoms. Don’t stop taking a medication unless your provider tells you it’s safe to do so. Taking medicine to reduce symptoms. Elevating the affected part of your body, like placing your leg on a pillow when lying down. Resting and avoiding strenuous activity. Erythema nodosum can resolve on its own after a few weeks to months and doesn’t always need treatment.
Recommended specialist

If you have Erythema Nodosum, then a visit to a rheumatologist is recommended.

Contact a

Rheumatologist

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