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Erythema Nodosum

 

The Inflammation Is Inside And Outside As Well

Another condition which can present as a result of mononucleosis is a type of skin inflammation called erythema nodosum, also called EN.

Occurring in the fatty layer of the skin, it results in lumps which are painful and tender, often appearing as reddish bumps on the front of the legs below the knees.

EN can resolve itself within the period of time it takes for the person to recover from mono, with the nodular inflammations slowly shrinking down, eventually leaving marks that look like bruising on the legs.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Erythema Nodosum

As a rule, it is relatively easy for a doctor to diagnose erythema nodosum by examining the patient and making note of the typical tight-skinned, red area with lesions and a bruised appearance.

Sometimes a biopsy is done for confirmation; however, it is usually not necessary. The way EN is managed is through the treatment of the condition which brought it on in the first place.

Also, treatment is directed toward the inflamed areas on the skin. The most common treatments are anti-inflammatory drugs such as cortisone, either taken by mouth or injection.

Even though it is disturbing and sometimes painful, erytema nodosum does not affect internal organs and, in the long run, it does usually heal well with lesions of EN spontaneously resolving over a period of weeks or sometimes months.

EN Can Hang Around For Years

There is another side to EN which can occur wherein the condition becomes chronic and may last for years, long after the originating illness is gone.

Some people who contract mononucleosis experience erythema nodosum as a result of the infection and end up with EN, living it with for many years.

For those who suffer with chronic EN, sometimes cortisone or steroid treatments help relieve the symptoms and often there is little left to do other than live with the condition.

 



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