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Published on: January 17, 2018
Herpes associated erythema multiforme annularis concentricum
C M Kuldeep1, J Saraswat, H Sharma
1Department of Skin, STD and Leprosy, SMS Medical College, Jaipur - 302 004, India, .
Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology
|October 19, 2010
Summary
A case study shows a young man developed erythema multiforme (EM) lesions, possibly linked to HSV-1 infection. While zinc therapy helped heal the EM, it led to subsequent concentric depigmentation.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Erythema multiforme (EM) is an acute, immune-mediated condition.
- Recurrent herpes labialis is a common trigger for EM.
- The presentation of EM can vary, sometimes with unusual sequelae.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of erythema multiforme in a young man.
- To investigate the potential link between HSV-1 infection and EM.
- To describe the treatment response and subsequent skin changes.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observation of skin lesions over eight weeks.
- Review of patient's past medical history for recurrent herpes labialis.
- Serological testing for anti-HSV-1 IgG antibodies.
- Histopathological examination of an active skin lesion.
- Assessment of response to symptomatic treatment and oral zinc therapy.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with large, concentric plaques on the back and forearms.
- Elevated serum anti-HSV-1 IgG titre (32 micrograms/l) was detected.
- Histopathology was suggestive of erythema multiforme.
- EM lesions resolved with symptomatic treatment and oral zinc.
- Concentric depigmentation occurred after lesion healing.
Conclusions:
- Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection may be associated with erythema multiforme.
- Oral zinc therapy can be effective in managing EM lesions.
- Concentric depigmentation can be a late-onset complication following EM healing.
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