Erythema multiforme: a literature review and case report

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Immunology
• Oral Medicine

Background:

• Erythema multiforme (EM) is a florid mucocutaneous condition.
• Characterized by oral, cutaneous, and ocular manifestations.
• Cutaneous lesions are pathognomonic, presenting a unique "target-like" appearance.

Observation:

• A severe form of EM is known as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.
• The exact etiology of EM remains unknown.
• Significant research points to an immunological association with herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Findings:

• Diagnosis of EM relies on clinical signs and symptoms.
• Differential diagnosis must exclude other ulcerative mucocutaneous diseases.
• Includes erosive lichen planus, pemphigus, varicella zoster, ANUG, TEN, aphthous stomatitis, and primary HSV.

Implications:

• Therapeutic measures for EM are primarily palliative.
• Treatment includes a soft bland diet, topical anesthetics, and corticosteroids.
• Understanding EM's presentation and course is crucial for patient management.