Erthema Multiforme

[Gatomiller]

My mother has been diagnosed with erythema multiforme. She has a rash (bump like bites on her legs). But nothing I see talks about swelling of hands as a symptom - which she also has (no rash on hands). On a sidenote she was recently diagnosed with renal artery stenosis, so I wonder if this isn't a vascular issue.

[Rowena Santos, MD]

Erythema multiforme is a type of hypersensitivity reaction that occurs in response to medications, infections, or illness. Medications associated with erythema multiforme include sulfonamides, penicillins, barbiturates, and phenytoin. Associated infections include herpes simplex and mycoplasma infections. The exact cause is unknown. The disorder is believed to involve damage to the blood vessels of the skin with subsequent damage to skin tissues.

Are there other signs or symptoms present? A skin lesion biopsy and microscopic examination may be helpful to differentiate erythema multiforme from other disorders.
Moist compresses applied to skin lesions and antihistamines to control the itching may help.

Was there a previous injury to the hands? Swelling of the hands may also be due to :     hand injury, carpal tunnel syndrome, hypothyroidism, axillary vein thrombosis or as part of  general body swelling.

It is best to see your doctor for further evaluation and management. Take care and keep us posted.