Erythroderma

Erythroderma is a medical condition characterized by widespread erythema and scaling of the skin. It is also known as exfoliative dermatitis and can be caused by various underlying conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, drug reactions, and lymphoma.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Erythroderma can be caused by a variety of conditions. The most common causes include:

Psoriasis: This is a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches of skin. In some cases, psoriasis can progress to erythroderma.
Eczema: This is a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the skin. Severe cases of eczema can result in erythroderma.
Drug reactions: Certain medications can cause a severe allergic reaction that results in erythroderma. This is known as a drug-induced erythroderma.
Lymphoma: This is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system. In rare cases, lymphoma can cause erythroderma.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of erythroderma can vary depending on the underlying cause. However, common symptoms include:

Widespread redness of the skin
Scaling or peeling of the skin
Itching
Fever
Chills
Swelling of the limbs

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of erythroderma is typically based on the clinical presentation and a thorough medical history. Additional tests, such as skin biopsies and blood tests, may be performed to determine the underlying cause.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment of erythroderma is aimed at managing the symptoms and treating the underlying cause. This may involve the use of topical creams and ointments, systemic medications, and in severe cases, hospitalization for supportive care.

See also[edit | edit source]

Erythroderma Resources
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