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Updated: Jul 18, 2026

Precision Implementation of Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) Testing to Assess Individual Variation in Human Inflammatory Response

Precision Implementation of Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) Testing to Assess Individual Variation in Human Inflammatory Response

Published on: October 3, 2019

Erythema multiforme.

Michele R Lamoreux¹, Marna R Sternbach, W Teresa Hsu

¹Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19127, USA. mlamoreu@drexelmed.edu

American Family Physician

|December 16, 2006

Summary

Erythema multiforme is a hypersensitivity reaction causing characteristic target lesions. Antiviral therapy, including acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, can prevent recurrent cases.

Area of Science:

Dermatology
Immunology
Pharmacology

Background:

Erythema multiforme is a skin condition presenting as a polymorphous eruption.
It is recognized as a hypersensitivity reaction to infections or drugs.
Lesions are typically symmetrical, featuring macules, papules, and characteristic target lesions, primarily on distal extremities.

Purpose of the Study:

To summarize the clinical presentation and management of erythema multiforme.
To discuss the role of antiviral therapy in managing recurrent cases.

Main Methods:

Review of clinical presentation and diagnostic criteria for erythema multiforme.
Analysis of treatment strategies, including addressing underlying causes and suppressional antiviral therapy.

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Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) Testing

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Precision Implementation of Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) Testing to Assess Individual Variation in Human Inflammatory Response

Precision Implementation of Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) Testing to Assess Individual Variation in Human Inflammatory Response

Published on: October 3, 2019

Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) Testing

Minimal Erythema Dose (MED) Testing

Published on: May 28, 2013

Main Results:

Mild cases of erythema multiforme often resolve without specific treatment.
Continuous acyclovir has shown efficacy in preventing recurrent erythema multiforme.
Valacyclovir and famciclovir offer alternatives with improved bioavailability and dosing convenience for non-responsive cases.

Conclusions:

Management focuses on identifying and treating the causative agent or drug.
Antiviral medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir are crucial for managing recurrent erythema multiforme.
Dermatological referral is recommended for persistent or treatment-refractory cases.