Erythroderma is defined as a generalized skin disorder and characterized by reddening and scaling of 100% of the skin. It often precedes or is associated with exfoliation (skin peeling off in scales or layers) when it may also be known as exfoliative dermatitis (ED). It is sometimes called the ‘red man syndrome’ when no primary cause can be found (idiopathic erythroderma). Erythroderma is produced by several skin diseases, such as psoriasis, contact dermatitis, drug reactions, and mycosis fungoides (a cutaneous lymphoma). Erythroderma can arise from a variety of causes, most often as an extension of a pre-existing skin disorder. There may also be normal areas of skin present. Erythroderma may also be due to an adverse drug reaction.

Erythroderma can arise from a variety of causes, most often as an embellishmence of a pre-existing skin disorder. Erythroderma may also be due to an adverse drug reaction. However, in as many as 30% of all cases of erythroderma, no underlying cause can be found. This is called idiopathic erythroderma. ED onset usually occurs in persons older than 40 years, except when the condition results from atopic dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome, or a hereditary ichthyosis. It is slightly more common in men than women. It can develop quite rapidly. Signs and symptoms of erythroderma include varying degrees of itching , swollen lymph nodes , electrolyte abnormalities and dehydration because of fluid loss through the skin and swollen lymph nodes.

Longstanding erythroderma may result in pigmentary changes (brown and / or white skin patches) is also symptoms of erythroderma. Erythroderma is reduce medicine and steroids. Dithranol is very effective in 85-90 % of cases. It is applied to the skin for 24 hours and used in combination with UVB. Systemic steroids may be helpful in some cases but should be avoided in suspected cases of psoriasis and staphylococcal-scalded skin syndrome. Emollients are very effective for the treatment of erythroderma. Low-dose of methotrexate , ciclosporin or acitretin may also be beneficial for the treatment of erythroderma. Apply wet dressing and change it every two or three hours. Apply intermediate-strength topical steroids beneath wet dressing.

Erythroderma Treatment Tips

1. Adequate nutrition with emphasis on protein intake.

2. Dithranol is very effective in 85-90 % of cases od erythroderma.

3. A sedative antihistamine may be a useful for itchy patients.

4. Systemic Steroids may also be helpful in some cases of erythroderma.

5. Topical Steroids are the primary category of medications used to treat erythroderma.

6. Topical tar preparations and photo therapy should also be avoided in the early treatment of erythroderma.

7. Emollients are very effective for the treatment of erythroderma.

8. Low-dose of methotrexate , ciclosporin or acitretin may also be beneficial for the treatment of erythroderma.