Erythema multiforme, or Stevens-Johnson syndrome, is a serious skin condition in which the skin tissue severely overreacts to medications or infections. The typical rash associated with erythema multiforme appears as painful red or purplish blisters. The skin will usually fall off and shed, states Mayoclinic.com. Erythema multiforme is an emergency medical condition that requires immediate hospitalization to control symptoms and prevent further complications.
Discontinue Medications
Erythema multiforme can be caused by certain medications, including barbiturates, penicillin, phenypoin or sulfonamides, states MedlinePlus. A medication may cause erythema multiforme if the patient has a severe allergic reaction to the chemicals in the medication. In this case, a patient should immediately stop taking the medication that is causing the severe allergic reaction and seek immediate medical treatment.
Control Infection
Erythema multiforme may be caused by infections such as those caused by herpes simplex or mycoplasma, states MedlinePlus. The condition may develop because the body may have a severe immunologic reaction to the infection. Specifically, the body may form antibodies against the infections that may be similar to certain receptors in the skin. This causes the body's infection-fighting cells to inappropriately attack skin membranes. Therefore, the underlying medical condition, such as herpes or mycoplasma, should be first treated to resolve symptoms of erythema multiforme. Once treated, the body's immune system will reduce its response. In addition to treating the infection, supportive therapy in the hospital will be given to help a patient recover.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids -- strong anti-inflammatory medications -- may be prescribed to reduce the patient's immune system response. A physician must make sure that there are no active infections; otherwise, prescribing corticosteroids may worsen the patient's condition. A doctor typically prescribes high-dose corticosteroids that may be tapered over time to avoid side effects of immediate corticosteroid withdrawal. A patient should let his doctor know if he experiences any side affects due to corticosteroid use.
