Poison ivy: an underreported cause of erythema multiforme.
The relationship between herpes simplex virus (HSV) and erythema multiforme (EM) has been well described. Many authors contend that EM (excluding Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis) occurs almost exclusively as a response to HSV infection. During the past year, however, we have observed several cases of EM complicating severe Rhus allergic contact dermatitis. Although this association has been previously documented, the paucity of cases in the literature, along with our experience, suggests that this is an underreported phenomenon. We describe 4 of our cases.
Werchniak
Andrew E
AE
Department of Dermatology, Dartmouth Medical School and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Hanover, New Hampshire, USA.
Schwarzenberger
Kathryn
K
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D011040:Dermatitis, Toxicodendron / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy; D004892:Erythema Multiforme / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011241:Prednisone / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D011241:Prednisone