Erythema is defined as redness of the skin which may be limited to a specific area or distributed in several districts of the body that the acupressure disappears and then reappears with the cease of the same (basic characteristic to distinguish erythema).
Erythema can have different shades of red color and is presented in many diseases affecting the skin. Depending on the disease it can be an initial symptom, sole or main and is usually accompanied by a temperature increase. Itching and / or peeling of the skin also may accompany the rash.
The reasons that may be causing the discomfort can be physical (mechanical, thermal), chemical, infectious, emotional or allergic (to drugs, foods, products for personal hygiene and house cleaning product).
What kind of diseases can be associated with erythema?
Diseases that can be associated with the presence of erythema are the following:
- Contact allergy
- Anaphylaxis
- Blepharitis
- Bursitis
- Actinic keratosis
- Liver cirrhosis
- Dermatitis
- Atopic dermatitis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Dermatophytosis
- Sunburn
- Folliculitis
- Chilblains
- Impetigo
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Ichthyosis
- Leprosy
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Chagas disease
- Pityriasis rosea
- Psoriasis
- Rosacea
- Scabies
- Sialadenitis
- Tinea versicolor
- Toxoplasmosis
- African trypanosomiasis
- Burns
Remember that this is not an exhaustive list and it is highly recommended to consult your doctor, in case of symptom’s persistence.
What is the therapy for erythema?
Since the erythema is not a disease, rather it is a symptom indicating a presence of other very different diseases, the therapy depends on the identification of the underlying disease that can lead to its resolution, or at least to its alleviation.
A doctor should recommend the most appropriate behavior, medications and activities that can help with the treatment. There are several types of drugs that can be used to treat erythema: antibiotics in case of bacterial infections, the antihistamines in case of allergic reactions, painkillers and the anti-inflammatory to control the itching.
When is most likely to contact your doctor in case of erythema?
In case of a burn or if the patient is at risk (or presence) of one of the associated diseases (see list of associated diseases).
