Redness of the skin due to dilatation of dermal blood vessels. It may be transient or chronic, localised or widespread, and it can be blanched by pressure. Erythema may be caused by excessive exposure to heat or ultraviolet light, or by inflammation of the skin due to infection, DERMATITIS, and various allergic reactions – for example, to drugs. It may be emotional (e.g. as in flushing), mediated by the autonomic nervous system.
is a fixed redness of the skin caused by chronic exposure to heat from a domestic fire or radiator.
(See CHILBLAIN.) Redness induced by spasm of the skin arterioles due to cold. It affects the hands, feet or calves in winter. The red swollen areas are cooler than normal.
A singular pattern of red, tender nodules occurring on the shins, often lasting several weeks. It may be caused by a streptococcal throat infection, primary tuberculosis, SARCOIDOSIS, or may be drug-induced.
is an acute allergic eruption of the extremities characterised by circular areas of erythema, purpura and blistering, which resolve over two or three weeks, caused by infections or drugs. In severe forms the mucous membranes of the eyes, mouth and genitalia may be involved.
is an acute contagious disease of children caused by a parvovirus (see PARVOVIRUSES). In young children a bright erythema of the face gives a ‘slapped cheek’ appearance.