[Erythema multiforme as a vesicular exanthema (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Viral Infections

Background:

• Erythema multiforme is an acute, self-limiting hypersensitivity reaction often triggered by infections, particularly herpes simplex virus.
• Herpes glutealis, a manifestation of genital herpes, can serve as a potential trigger for mucocutaneous conditions.
• The spectrum of Erythema multiforme presentations can vary, making diagnosis challenging in atypical cases.

Observation:

• A patient presented with a recurrence of Erythema multiforme subsequent to an outbreak of Herpes glutealis.
• The cutaneous lesions were characterized by closely grouped vesicles distributed widely across the body.
• A specific finding was the presence of pathognomonic target-like lesions exclusively on the palms.

Findings:

• This case illustrates a rare clinical presentation of Erythema multiforme with a distinct vesicular morphology.
• The localization of target lesions solely on the palms in conjunction with generalized vesicles is an unusual dermatological finding.
• The temporal association suggests Herpes glutealis as a potential precipitating factor for this Erythema multiforme recurrence.

Implications:

• Understanding atypical Erythema multiforme presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
• This case broadens the clinical spectrum associated with Herpes glutealis-triggered Erythema multiforme.
• Further research into the immunopathogenesis of Erythema multiforme triggered by specific viral infections may be warranted.