Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Erythema marginatum
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Erythema marginatum is described as the presence of pink rings on the trunk and inner surfaces of the arms and legs which come and go for as long as several months. The rings are barely raised and are non-pruritic. The face is generally spared.
Classification
Classification
Some sources distinguish between the following:
- “Erythema marginatum rheumaticum”
- “Erythema marginatum perstans”
Epidemiology and Demographics
Epidemiology and Demographics
It occurs in less than 5% of patients with rheumatic fever, but is considered a major Jones criterion when it does occur. The four other major criteria include carditis, polyarthritis, Sydenham’s Chorea, and subcutaneous (Aschoff) nodules.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
It is an early feature of rheumatic fever and may be associated with mild carditis (inflammation of heart muscle). [1] [2]
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]