Bextra and
Erythema Multiforme
 FREE Case Review
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Erythema Multiforme is a skin condition characterized by small, ring-shaped rashes called “target lesions” that commonly form on the hands and feet, but can appear anywhere on the body. This allergic reaction is mainly caused by viral infections, but is also likely to appear as an allergic reaction to certain drugs called “sulfas” or with use of the Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory COX-2 Inhibitor drug Bextra. Bextra can cause erythema multiforme in many patients with allergies to sulfa drugs, often with devastating consequences. Common symptoms of erythema multiforme include:
- Multiple skin lesions:
- With sudden onset, possibly recurring and spreading
- Symmetrical central lesion surrounded by pale red concentric rings, also known as “target", "iris", or "bull's eye"
- May have blisters of various sizes
- Located on the legs, arms, palms, hands, or feet and may involve the face or lips
- Itching
- Fever
- General ill feeling
- Joint aches
Less common symptoms associated with erythema multiforme:
- Vision abnormalities
- Dry eyes
- Bloodshot eyes
- Eye pain
- Eye burning, itching and discharge
- Mouth sores
The exact cause of erythema multiforme is still a mystery to scientists. It is believed that there is some form of damage to the blood vessels of the skin which then causes peripheral damage to ancillary tissues. This damage, while relatively minor, can cause Steven-Johnson’s Syndrome or even Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis if left untreated. These two potentially fatal conditions are examples of advanced erythema multiforme and require extensive medical treatment in an intensive care or burn unit of a major medical center.
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