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Erythema marginatum

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

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

  1. Sailer, Christian, Wasner, Susanne. Differential Diagnosis Pocket. Hermosa Beach, CA: Borm Bruckmeir Publishing LLC, 2002:77 ISBN 1591032016
  2. Kahan, Scott, Smith, Ellen G. In A Page: Signs and Symptoms. Malden, Massachusetts: Blackwell Publishing, 2004:68 ISBN 140510368X



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