Herpes Associated Erythema Multiforme: A Diagnostic Dilemma

Palani Rajan, Rajkumar, Arulraj Russelian

Abstract: Erythema multiforme (EM) is an acute muco-cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction which usually affects young adults. Twenty percent of cases occur in children [1]. Erythema multiforme is a self – limiting illness. Herpes Simplex virus is the most common cause of EM, but a few medications like penicillin, barbiturates, NSAIDS, phenothiazines, hydantoins and sulfonamides also have etiological association. Here we report a case of EM with possible etiology of either HSV or drugs to discuss the clinical features, treatment and differentiating features between the two etiologies.

Keywords: ERYTHEMA MULTIFORME, HERPES SIMPLES VIRUS, AMOXYCILLIN, TARGET LESIONS