Erythema Articular Epidemic

Epidermic articular erythema (erythema articulare epidermicum) is an acute infectious disease characterized by fever, polymorphic rash and joint damage.

The disease is caused by the paravaccinal erythema virus, which is transmitted by airborne droplets. The incubation period ranges from 1 to 3 weeks.

Clinically, epidemic articular erythema occurs in three stages:

  1. The prodromal stage lasts 1-2 days. There is an increase in body temperature to 38-39°C, malaise, and headache.

  2. The rash stage lasts 3-5 days. A pinpoint rash appears on the face, torso and limbs. Migration of rash elements with a transition to the forearms and lower legs is characteristic.

  3. The post-rash stage lasts 1-2 weeks. The rash turns pale and disappears. There is damage to the joints in the form of polyarthritis of large and medium joints.

Diagnosis is based on the clinical picture and epidemiological data. Treatment is symptomatic - antipyretics, painkillers. The prognosis is favorable.



Erythema articularis is an acute skin reaction characterized by redness and inflammation of the skin or skin and joints. The name of the disease comes from the Latin words erythema - “redness” and arti - “hand”. According to statistics, the incidence is 0.5%.

Symptoms of erythema joint epidemic include redness and swelling of the skin in the joint area, which may be symmetrical. They are often accompanied by burning and pain in the joints and may be accompanied by other skin symptoms such as eczema, hives and other skin conditions. The erythema usually begins unnoticed, but may progress over time. Symptoms may disappear spontaneously or become chronic.

Treatment for erythema jointis usually involves the use of topical creams and ointments containing corticosteroids, as well as the use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as diclofenac and nimesulide. In severe cases, oral steroids should be prescribed. Your doctor may also prescribe antihistamines to relieve itching. To date, no treatment for erythema has been shown to completely eliminate the risk of recurrence. But if you are worried that your illness is caused by a virus or bacterial infection, you should consult a doctor.

Epidemic erythema joints should not be ignored; under no circumstances can it lead to serious complications. Therefore, I strongly recommend that you consult a doctor at the first signs of illness and do not self-medicate.