ERYTHEMA IRIS Meaning and
Definition
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Erythema iris, also known as erythema multiforme, is a skin condition characterized by the development of distinct red circular patches on the skin, resembling a target or iris. The term erythema iris is derived from the Latin words "erythema," meaning redness, and "iris," referring to the resemblance of the patches to the colored part of the eye.
These patches, typically 1-5 cm in size, have a central portion that appears dusky, purplish, or brownish, surrounded by a paler ring and an outermost ring that is red or pink. The shape and appearance of the lesions give rise to the colloquial term "target lesions."
Erythema iris is often triggered by an autoimmune reaction or an allergic response, most commonly linked to infections, medications, or underlying medical conditions. Symptoms may include fever, fatigue, itching, burning sensation, and, in severe cases, ulceration or blister formation.
Although erythema iris can affect any age group, it is more commonly observed in young adults. The condition is typically self-limiting, with the lesions resolving within a few weeks to months. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying cause, providing symptomatic relief, and preventing complications or recurrence.
It is important to differentiate erythema iris from other skin conditions that may present with similar features, such as erythema migrans (seen in Lyme disease) or erythema nodosum (commonly associated with sarcoidosis or tuberculosis). A dermatologist or healthcare professional should evaluate persistent or concerning lesions for a proper diagnosis.
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A variety of e. multiforme in which the lesions appear in the shape of concentric rings.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ERYTHEMA IRIS
- wrythema iris
- srythema iris
- drythema iris
- rrythema iris
- 4rythema iris
- 3rythema iris
- eeythema iris
- edythema iris
- efythema iris
- etythema iris
- e5ythema iris
- e4ythema iris
- ertthema iris
- ergthema iris
- erhthema iris
- eruthema iris
- er7thema iris
- er6thema iris
- eryrhema iris
- eryfhema iris
Etymology of ERYTHEMA IRIS
The word "erythema iris" is a medical term used to describe a skin condition characterized by a red ring with a pale center.
The term "erythema" comes from the Greek word "erythros", meaning "red". It was first coined in the mid-18th century by the Scottish physician William Cullen. "Erythros" was used to describe a variety of conditions and symptoms involving redness, including skin inflammation.
The word "iris" refers to the iris of the eye, which is the colored part surrounding the pupil. It is derived from the Latin word "iris" or "iridis", which originally came from the Greek term "iris", meaning "rainbow". The term was used metaphorically in medicine to refer to a circular or ring-like pattern, resembling the iris of the eye.
