erythema migrans
Pronunciation: er-ih-THEE-mah MY-granz
The characteristic expanding rash of early Lyme disease, typically presenting as an enlarging red ring with central clearing.
Full Definition
Erythema migrans is the pathognomonic skin lesion of early Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi infection following tick bite. In pediatric dermatology, this lesion typically appears 3-30 days after tick bite as an expanding erythematous patch or plaque with characteristic central clearing, creating a 'bull's-eye' appearance. The lesion gradually enlarges over days to weeks and may reach significant size if untreated. Proper documentation includes size, duration, presence of central clearing, and associated symptoms. Recognition is crucial for timely antibiotic therapy to prevent systemic complications of Lyme disease.
Usage
Usage note: Not all lesions show classic 'bull's-eye' appearance. Document size and expansion pattern carefully.
In Context
- "The expanding erythema migrans lesion with central clearing confirmed early Lyme disease diagnosis." — pediatric infectious disease consultation
- "Treatment with doxycycline resulted in rapid resolution of the erythema migrans rash." — follow-up visit documentation