How to Determine Whether You Might Have Erythema Nodosum

Erythema nodosum, or EN, is a kind of skin inflammation that affects the fatty layer of the skin, resulting in reddish and often painful lumps that appear on the surface. This condition most often appears on the front of the legs below the knees and can be triggered by any number of influences. EN also is often accompanied by pain in the joints. Diagnosis of EN is often missed because its symptoms are similar to other diseases, which can frustrate someone suffering from the condition.

Instructions

• 1

  Look for any painful red nodules that have appeared on your body, especially on the shins. These lumps aren't open or ulcerated and you can't drain them, but they feel warm to the touch. These nodules often look like tender bruises.

• 2

  Check to see if you are experiencing aching or swelling and pain in the joints.

• 3

  Check for symptoms of fever, malaise, sore throat, fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain and diarrhea.

• 4

  Try to recall if you recently ate any food or took any medication you might have a reaction to. Medications that might result in EN include amoxicillin and other penicillin, oral contraceptives and antibiotics.

• 5

  Recall if you have had any recent infections. Some common infections that may result in EN include strep throat, cat scratch disease, chlamydia, hepatitis B, mononucleosis, syphilis and tuberculosis.

• 6

  Consider if you might be suffering from other disorders that may result in EN, such as leukemia, lymphoma and rheumatic fever. If you're a woman, consider if you might be pregnant. Changes in the body due to pregnancy can result in EN.

• 7

  Visit a doctor if you want a diagnosis on your condition. A doctor may perform a biopsy on any nodules and test you for other diseases and conditions to see if there is an underlying condition that is causing the problem.