Erythema Nodosum

What is erythema nodosum?

Erythema nodosum is characterized by tender, red bumps, usually found on the shins. Quite often, erythema nodosum is not a separate disease, but, rather, a sign of some other disease, or of a sensitivity to a drug.

Diseases that can cause erythema nodosum:

• streptococcal infections
• sarcoidosis (inflammation of the lymph nodes and other organs)
• leprosy
• coccidioidomycosis (infection of the upper respiratory tract and lungs)
• histoplasmosis (an infectious pulmonary disease)
• tuberculosis
• psittacosis (a flu-like disease)
• lymphogranuloma venereum (a venereal infection)
• ulcerative colitis

Treatment for erythema nodosum:

Specific treatment for erythema nodosum will be determined by your physician based on:

• your age, overall health, and medical history
• extent of the condition
• your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the condition
• your opinion or preference