Erythema nodosum

Question 1

Define erythema nodosum

Answer 1

panniculitis (inflammation of subcutaneous fat tissue) presenting as red or violet subcutaneous nodules

Question 2

major causes of erythema nodosum?

Answer 2

TB and sarcoidosis

Question 3

other causes of erythema nodosum?

Answer 3

•	Drugs 
o	Sulphonamides  
o	Penicillin  
o	Combined oral contraceptive pills  
•	Pregnancy 
•	Malignancy 
o	Leukaemia  
o	Hodgkin's disease

Question 4

epidemiology of erythema nodosum ?

Answer 4

• Usually affects YOUNG ADULTS

* THREE times more common in FEMALES

Question 5

presenting symptoms of erythema nodosum ?

Answer 5

• Tender red or violet nodules bilaterally on both shins
• Nodules are tender to palpation
• Low-grade pyrexia
• Joints may be tender

Question 6

investigations for erythema nodosum?

Answer 6

• Determine underlying CAUSE

check chest X-ray as first line to look for TB and sarcoidosis