Figurate erythema

Last updated
Figurate erythema
Bullseye Lyme Disease Rash.jpg
Concentric circles in Lyme disease (example of a figurate erythema)
Specialty Dermatology
Symptoms Multiple red, wavy rings, concentric circles, arcs [1]
TypesClassic types:erythema annulare centrifugum, erythema gyratum repens, erythema migrans, erythema marginatum [1]

Figurate erythema describes a rash linked to various skin conditions, characterized by multiple red, wavy rings, concentric circles, and arcs, typically recognised as annular patterns. [1]

Contents

Classification

Four classic types have been reported as erythema annulare centrifugum, erythema gyratum repens, erythema migrans and erythema marginatum, though the pattern is seen in numerous other conditions. [2] [3] Causes may also be divided into infectious, malignant, and drug reactions. [4]

Signs and symptoms

Figurate erythema is typically characterized by multiple red, wavy rings, concentric circles, and arcs, typically recognised as annular patterns. [1] The initial lesion is typically a slightly raised reddish bump which extends outwards and may have a trailing scale. [4] The lesions may be fixed, transient, or migratory. [4]

Diagnosis

Distinguishing between the varying types may be easier by describing its location, how rapidly it expands, and the characteristics of its border. [1] Diagnosis is often by exclusion. [2] To confirm a diagnosis, a biopsy may be required. [1]

History

The term was first described by Thomas Fox in 1889. [3]

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Bolognia, Jean L.; Schaffer, Julie V.; Duncan, Karynne O.; Ko, Christine (2022). "5. Figurate erythemas". Dermatology Essentials (2nd ed.). Elsevier. pp. 142–148. ISBN   978-0-323-70971-2.
  2. 1 2 Boehner, Alexander; Neuhauser, Ruth (28 May 2021). "Figurate erythemas – update and diagnostic approach". JDDG: Journal der Deutschen Dermatologischen Gesellschaft. 19 (7): 963–972. doi: 10.1111/ddg.14450 . PMID   34046996.
  3. 1 2 Kazandjieva, Jana; Bogdanov, Georgi; Bogdanov, Ivan; Tsankov, Nikolai (1 May 2023). "Figurate annulare erythemas". Clinics in Dermatology. 41 (3): 368–375. doi:10.1016/j.clindermatol.2023.07.005. ISSN   0738-081X. PMID   37433389.
  4. 1 2 3 James, William D.; Elston, Dirk; Treat, James R.; Rosenbach, Misha A.; Neuhaus, Isaac (2020). "7. Erythema and urticaria". Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology (13th ed.). Edinburgh: Elsevier. p. 143-144. ISBN   978-0-323-54753-6.