Erythema elevatum diutinum and pre-AIDS

Erythema elevatum diutinum (EED) is a chronic disease with symmetrical persistent erythematous nodules and plaques primarily in an acral distribution. EED is often associated with infections, especially of streptococcals. An immunological reaction has been proposed as pathogenetic mechanism. We describe a patient, who developed EED secondary to a LAV/HTLV III positive lymphadenopathy syndrome. Immunological investigation of a skin lesion and a lymph node biopsy is described.