Erythema Nodosum

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Abstract
A clinical and radiological investigation of 124 cases of erythema nodosum has been carried out. Fifty-six cases showed radiological evidence of active pulmonary or mediastinal disease. These appearances have been analysed and classified according to type and age group. Fifty-five cases with demonstrable radiological changes were regarded as being unquestionably of tuberculous origin, 49 of them being associated with primary tuberculous infection. Of the total series, including those not showing radiological changes, 99 cases (i.e., 77·3 per cent.) were regarded as being probably of tuberculous origin. Of these, 71 cases (i.e., 57·3 per cent.) were probably cases of primary infection. Four cases were shown as occurring in association with an adult type of tuberculosis, and eight cases occurred as a sequel to sulphonamide administration. Four cases had a possible connection with a hæmolytic streptococcal infection. It is thus considered that in England the possibility of primary tuberculosis must be considered in all cases of erythema nodosum until some other etiological factor is demonstrated or proven. In all cases, tuberculous or nontuberculous, the evidence points towards the eruption being a non-specific allergic phenomenon.