Erythema Multiforme
Pronunciation: eh-rih-THEE-muh mul-tih-FOR-mee
Also written as: EM — Erythema Multiforme
An acute, immune-mediated mucocutaneous condition characterised by target lesions on skin and erosive stomatitis, frequently triggered by herpes simplex virus infection.
Full Definition
Erythema multiforme (EM) is a hypersensitivity reaction presenting with characteristic 'target' or 'iris' skin lesions and, in the oral form, with extensive haemorrhagic crusting of the lips, ulceration, and erosive stomatitis. The most common trigger in oral medicine contexts is recurrent herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection, followed by drug reactions. Editors must distinguish erythema multiforme minor (skin predominantly, limited mucosa) from erythema multiforme major (widespread mucosal involvement), and both from Stevens–Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which exist on a severity spectrum. The spelling is 'erythema multiforme' (not 'multiform'). 'EM' is an acceptable abbreviation after first-use expansion.
Usage
Usage note: Spell as 'erythema multiforme' (adjective, not noun form 'multiform'). Always distinguish from Stevens–Johnson syndrome and TEN when describing severity. Use an en dash in 'Stevens–Johnson', not a hyphen.
In Context
- "Recurrent erythema multiforme secondary to herpes simplex virus reactivation was managed with prophylactic aciclovir." — Oral medicine outpatient letter
- "The text described Stevens–Johnson syndrome and erythema multiforme as interchangeable; the editor queried this, noting they are distinct entities on a clinical spectrum." — Manuscript review annotation