Erythema nodosum as symptom of systemic diseases

Introduction: Erythema nodosum (EN)is the most common panniculitis in childhood. The lesions of EN are localized at the lower limbs, in particular in the pretibial region, while upper limbs and trunk are rarely involved. Erythema nodosum can be associated with general symptoms such as fever, weakness, and severe pain, but skin lesions resolve without skin damage. Objectives: To describe five cases of Erythema nodosum in childhood Methods: R.G. f. 3 years old came to our department for a two week history of fever (up to 38 °C) and skin lesions. Physical examination revealed pharyngeal hyperemia and multiple erythematous nodules on the extensor surface of the lower extremities. Laboratory tests showed an elevation of ESR(35 mm/h) and CRP, (1,06 mg/dL) and high levels of Chlamydia Pneumoniae IgM.Throat swab was negative for group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus (GAS) and her chest X-ray was negative. So antibiotic therapy was prescribed and symptomatology improved. A.N. m. 8 years old was hospitalized for fever up to 39 °C and skin lesions in the lower limbs. Patient suffered from recurrent abdominal pain and diarrhea. Physical examination revealed abdominal pain and erythematous and painful nodules in pretibial region of both lower limbs. Blood tests showed increase of ESR (40 mm/h) and CRP (1,3 mg/dL). Blood examinations for celiac disease were negative. Fecal calprotectin was high (500 mg/kg). Abdomen ultrasound revealed terminal ileum bowel wall thickening. Crohn’s Disease (CD)was suspected and confirmed with an endoscopy including biopsies. A.N. f. 5 years old was admitted to our department for fever (38 °C) and skin lesions that started two weeks ago. The patient also had 1 month history of cough. Physical examination revealed: pharyngeal hyperemia, cervical and axillary lymphadenopathy and skin lesions suggestive of erythema nodosum on the extensor parts of both lower limbs. Inflammatory tests were increased (ERS 28 mm/h, CRP 1,5 mg/dL). Her chest X-ray was negative. Mantoux test was positive with an induration of 15 millimeters (mm) after 48 hours and 18 mm after 72 hours, also a Quantiferon test was positive. L.B. f. 12 years old had an history of fever, headache, fatigue, joint pain and skin lesions.The objective examination revealed: malar rash, arthritis of the right knee, erythematous nodules on the extensor surface of the lower limbs. Blood tests showed anemia (Hb,5 g/dL), thrombocytopenia (PLT 75.000/mm3), ERS increased (30 mm/h) positive ANA, antiDNA. Systemic Lupus Erythematous was diagnosed according to ACR criteria I.L. f. 8 months old had a two months history of recurrent fever and skin lesions. On admission the patient was febrile (TC 38 °C). Physical examination revealed pharyngeal hyperemia, splenomegaly and erythematous nodules on the extensor surface of the lower limbs.Inflammatory tests were increased (ERS 33 mm/h, CRP 2 mg/dL). Antibodies anti CMV, EBV, Chlamydia and Mycoplasma Pneumoniae were negative. Biopsy of a lesion showed a condition compatible with panarteritis nodosa. Results: EN is a skin inflammatory reaction. EN could be associated with infectious diseases (GAS, Chlamydia Pneumoniae, Mycoplasma Pneumoniae, Epstein-Barr virus, Mycobacterium Tuberculosis), drugs, inflammatory bowel diseases, rheumatologic diseases, malignant tumor. Conclusion: The presented cases show that erythema nodosum can be secondary to different diseases.In the diagnostic process associated symptomatology and laboratory tests should be considered to diagnose the disease and to start specific treatment