What will happen if erythema nodosum is not treated?

Erythema nodosum is a skin disease that easily occurs in young and middle-aged women. The main cause of erythema nodosum is bacterial infection. Patients usually have symptoms of inflammation and pain in the affected area. However, because the clinical symptoms of erythema nodosum are not particularly serious, many patients think that it is okay if the disease is not treated. In fact, this idea is wrong. You must know that the key to any disease is timely treatment. So what will happen if erythema nodosum is not treated?

Erythema nodosum is an inflammatory skin disorder in which tender, erythematous nodules appear under the skin, usually on the shins and occasionally on the arms and other areas. Erythema nodosum is an acute inflammatory disease that often affects the inner side of the calves below the knees on both legs. It can also affect the outer side of the calves, the thighs above the knees, and even the upper limbs. It is rare on the head and face. It manifests as bilateral symmetrical, bright red, dark red, or purple-red nodular lesions on the limbs, with obvious tenderness but generally no itching.

Erythema nodosum is a self-limiting disease with a general course of about 3 weeks. In most patients, the rash completely disappears within 5 weeks. However, relapse is common, and complications of tuberculosis often affect the prognosis. This disease is mostly an acute process. Through treatment and nursing, the erythema can disappear in 3 to 6 weeks. No internal organs are found to be involved. The condition is mild and the prognosis is good.

What happens if erythema nodosum is not treated? Usually, erythema nodosum is not a separate disease, but a manifestation of certain diseases or drug allergy. It is more common in young people and may recur after several months or years. Children often develop erythema nodosum after a cold or a sore throat (particularly a streptococcal infection). In adults, streptococcal infection and sarcoidosis are the most common causes. Other causes include leprosy, coccidioidomycosis, histoplasmosis, tuberculosis, psittacosis, lymphogranuloma venereum, and ulcerative colitis. The disorder may also be a drug reaction, particularly to sulfonamide-containing antibiotics, iodides, bromides, and oral contraceptives. If there are other secondary diseases, they should be treated actively.

After knowing what will happen if erythema nodosum is not treated, it is recommended that all patients take this disease seriously. In addition, during treatment, you must pay attention to keeping the affected area clean and hygienic, and pay attention to your diet and avoid eating foods that are easy to irritate the skin. This can ensure better treatment results.