Erythema multiforme is an immune-mediated skin condition that may develop inside the mouth. Oral symptoms can include lesions on the lips and blisters and erosions on the gums and palate.
Various conditions can cause symptoms similar to those of oral erythema multiforme. It’s important to contact a doctor if you notice these symptoms or if they do not respond to home treatments.
Read on to learn more about erythema multiforme in the mouth. This article looks at symptoms and causes, how doctors diagnose the condition, treatment options, and more.
Symptoms of erythema multiforme in the mouth can include:
- target-shaped lesions on the lips
- vesicles, or blisters, on the palate and gums (gingivae)
- erosions on the palate and gums
A rash may also develop on the skin, usually on the hands and feet. It can also affect the:
- stomach
- chest
- back
- face
- eyes
- genitals
- anus
Other symptoms can include:
- headache
- high temperature
- body aches
- generally feeling unwell (malaise)
Learn more about mouth sores.
In about 90% of cases, erythema multiforme develops following an infection. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is the most common infection associated with the condition.
More commonly, HSV-1 causes erythema multiforme. However, it can also develop as a result of HSV-2 infection.
As erythema multiforme is a rare complication of HSV, it’s possible that there’s also a genetic component.
Although less common, other possible causes include:
- certain medications, such as:
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- antibiotics
- antiepileptic drugs
- some vaccinations, particularly in infants
- hepatitis C and other infections
- systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
It may be possible to diagnose by taking a full medical history and examining symptoms.
However, a doctor may also need to order tests to rule out other possible causes. Tests can include:
- blood tests
- liver function tests
- chest X-ray
- skin biopsy, in rare cases
Your doctor can provide more information about the tests they recommend.
For mild cases or erythema multiforme, symptoms should resolve without medical treatment within around 4 weeks. It may take around 6 weeks for more severe cases.
Doctors may recommend medical treatments if symptoms affect the mouth and other parts of the body. Treatments can include:
- oral washes containing antiseptic or local anesthetic
- treatments for an underlying infection
- changes to any medications that may be causing symptoms
It’s important to continue taking any prescription medication until your doctor advises otherwise. Contact your doctor if you think that the medication you’re currently taking is causing your symptoms.
Recurrence with erythema multiforme is common.
If symptoms come back at least five times per year and it’s likely due to HSV, your doctor may recommend maintenance therapy with antiherpetic medication.
Oral symptoms of erythema multiforme will not directly spread to other parts of the body. However, symptoms may also develop on the skin and other areas, such as the eyes.
Cutaneous symptoms most commonly begin on the hands and feet. The rash may then spread inward toward the trunk.
Erythema multiforme is not contagious. It is not possible to pass it from one person to another.
You should contact a doctor if erythema multiforme causes symptoms in the mouth. It’s important to receive an accurate diagnosis and begin any treatments the doctor may recommend.
You should seek emergency help if:
- if your mouth, lips, tongue, or throat begins to swell
- you’re wheezing
- your chest or throat feels tight
- the rash on any part of the body is peeling or blistering
Erythema multiforme in the mouth, or oral erythema multiforme, can cause symptoms such as target-shaped lesions on the lips and blisters and erosions on the palate and gums. It can also affect the skin and other parts of the body.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is the main cause of erythema multiforme. Some medications and other infections can also lead to erythema multiforme.
The condition usually resolves on its own without medical treatment within about 4 to 6 weeks. Oral washes containing antiseptic or local anesthetic can also help, and you may require treatment for an underlying infection.
It’s important to contact a doctor if you have concerns about oral lesions or other symptoms. Your doctor can confirm the diagnosis and rule out other possible causes. They can also advise on medical treatments if necessary.
