What is erythema marginatum in rheumatic fever?
Aug 15, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Zhaomeng
Introduction
Erythema marginatum in rheumatic fever is a cutaneous manifestation of rheumatic fever, typically appearing relatively late after a streptococcal infection. It usually resolves within several hours to two days after onset. It commonly occurs on the trunk and flexural surfaces of the limbs. There is no specific pharmacological treatment; instead, penicillin is generally administered to eradicate the streptococcal infection.
Erythema marginatum in rheumatic fever is a cutaneous manifestation of rheumatic fever, typically appearing relatively late following streptococcal infection. Its incidence is low, ranging approximately from 6% to 25%. The characteristic rash consists of faintly erythematous, annular lesions with pale centers.
The rash may spontaneously resolve or appear abruptly, and most lesions disappear within several hours to two days after onset. It is more commonly observed during recurrent episodes of rheumatic fever following streptococcal infection.
It most frequently occurs on the trunk and flexural surfaces of the limbs, presenting as annular or semicircular lesions with slightly raised, non-tender, and non-pruritic borders. After resolution, the lesions leave no scaling or pigmentary changes. No specific pharmacologic therapy is required for this manifestation; treatment generally involves penicillin to eradicate the underlying streptococcal infection.
