Erythema induratum of Bazin

Erythema induratum of Bazin is a rare entity, the cause and treatment of which are topics of continuing controversy. This report documents the cases of two patients with ulcerating leg nodules. One patient had concurrent active pulmonary tuberculosis, and the other had a history of previous treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis. The treatment regimen for these patients is outlined. First described by Bazin, the rare entity of erythema induratum was thought to be of tuberculous origin or a tuberculid reaction. Opinion has varied, and some authors have classified this condition as a vasculitis involving subcutaneous vessels. Because of the rarity of this disorder and the controversy surrounding its cause and pathogenesis, we share our experience with two patients whose clinical and pathologic findings were consistent with the diagnostic criteria for erythema induratum and in whom there was a recent or remote history of tuberculosis.