- How the treatment is done
- Erythema multiforme caused by medication, food or cosmetics
- Erythema multiforme caused by bacteria
- Erythema multiforme caused by viruses
The treatment for erythema multiforme must be done according to the dermatologist's guidance and aims to eliminate the cause of the allergic reaction. Normally, the red spots characteristic of erythema multiforme disappear after a few weeks, however they can reappear with a certain frequency.
In the most severe cases of erythema multiforme, also known as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, the person needs to be admitted to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and in isolation for the treatment to be carried out and to avoid possible skin infections. Learn more about Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.
Erythema multiforme is inflammation of the skin that occurs due to the body's reaction to microorganisms, drugs or food, for example, leading to the appearance of blisters, wounds and red spots on the skin. To reduce the discomfort caused by existing injuries, creams or cold water compresses can be applied to the region at least 3 times a day. Understand what is erythema multiforme and main symptoms.
How the treatment is done
The treatment for erythema multiforme is not well established, as this condition has several possible causes. In addition, lesions of this type of erythema usually disappear after 2 to 6 weeks without the need for any type of treatment, however they can reappear. Therefore, it is important that the cause of erythema multiforme is identified and, thus, a more targeted treatment can be started.
Erythema multiforme caused by medication, food or cosmetics
In this case, if the erythema is due to an organism's response to the use of a certain medication, it is important to inform the doctor so that the medication is suspended and replaced by another that does not cause the same reaction.
If it is due to the consumption of some foods or the use of cosmetics, it is recommended to suspend the consumption or use of these products. In addition, a nutritionist should be consulted so that an adequate diet can be made in case of reaction to certain foods.
In such cases, the use of antihistamines to relieve the body's allergic reactions may also be recommended.
Erythema multiforme caused by bacteria
When the cause of erythema multiforme is a bacterial infection, it is important that the species is identified in order to indicate the best antibiotic to fight the infection. In the case of infection by Mycoplasma pneumoniae , for example, the use of the antibiotic Tetracycline, for example, may be indicated.
Erythema multiforme caused by viruses
The virus normally associated with the occurrence of erythema multiforme is the herpes virus, and the doctor recommends the use of the antiviral Acyclovir in order to eliminate the virus.
If the person has lesions in the mouth, the use of antiseptic solutions, with hydrogen peroxide or with 0.12% chlorhexidine solution, may be indicated to reduce pain, favor wound healing and prevent secondary infections.
