How to Treat Erythema Induratum?
Erythema induratum, also known as Bazin's disease or tuberculous gumma of the skin, is a condition that manifests as pea-sized lesions on the skin. These lesions are slightly raised, dark red, and have a distinct infiltration with indistinct boundaries. It is important for patients to avoid excessive fatigue, maintain a bland diet, and seek timely and targeted treatment. Let's explore the treatment methods for erythema induratum.
The primary treatment for erythema induratum involves the combined use of antituberculous drugs. This condition is most commonly seen in young women and often occurs concurrently with tuberculosis in other parts of the body. Although tuberculin tests may be positive, the isolation of tuberculosis bacteria from the skin lesions is rare. Initially, several subcutaneous nodules of pea-size appear, often symmetrically on the flexor aspect of the lower legs. Over the course of weeks, these nodules gradually increase in size, and the skin becomes slightly raised, dark red, with distinct infiltration and indistinct boundaries, appearing fixed and hard.
The symptoms of erythema induratum include the presence of several subcutaneous nodules of pea-size on the skin. The skin is slightly raised, dark red, with distinct infiltration and indistinct boundaries, appearing fixed and hard. These nodules often occur symmetrically on the flexor aspect of the lower legs. Over time, some of the nodules may gradually soften and ulcerate, forming deep ulcers that discharge thin pus. After healing, atrophic scars and pigmentation may remain. The nodules may also resolve spontaneously. Patients usually do not experience significant systemic symptoms, but may have varying degrees of tenderness at the local site.
Daily care for patients with erythema induratum includes:
- Resting and avoiding excessive fatigue, with the affected limb elevated to improve circulation.
- Keeping warm to prevent the affected limb from freezing.
- Maintaining a bland, easy-to-digest, high-protein, and vitamin-rich diet, with plenty of water. Avoiding spicy and stimulating foods, as well as smoking and alcohol consumption.