What is this new rash? I never had it before.
These are red skin lesions that can take on multiple forms. Erythema multiforme is an allergic reaction with many different causes. It can affect people of all ages and is often more severe in children and young adults. Erythema multiforme often starts as a red rash on the palms, soles, and back of the hands. It can spread to the trunk, face, and mouth in severe cases. Some people only have erythema multiforme in the mouth. As the skin lesions age they often look like small targets, with purple to dusky centers, surrounded by red rings. The condition can be associated with fever, muscle aches, and not feeling well.

What causes it? There are many causes of erythema multiforme. These include allergic reactions to viral, bacterial, and fungal infections; sensitivity to food or drugs; immunizations; or sometimes, it occurs in association with other disorders. The most common causes of erythema multiforme is an infection with Herpes simplex virus. Other causes are mycoplasma , pneumonia, cold sores, and as a reaction to medication (sulfa drugs). Erythema multiforme is not contagious. Some people have recurrent episodes of erythema multiforme, usually due to cold sores or herpes infection.

How do I treat it?
A mild cortisone applied directly to the irritated skin areas, colloidal baths, and wet compresses may be helpful to facilitate the clearing of the lesions. The most important treatment is to stop any medication that might be causing your rash. Only stop medicines you have been taking if your doctor tells you to.

Will it go away?
The development and clearing of the skin lesions occur in approximately one week, but the rash may continue to appear in certain areas of the body for as long as two or three weeks. Sometimes, erythema multiforme makes people very sick and they have to be monitored in the hospital. If you develop mouth lesions, call your doctor immediately.