Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Erythema Multiforme
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Erythema multiforme is a skin reaction that results in red, target-shaped patches on the skin.
What is going on in the body?
Erythema multiforme is an hypersensitivity reaction commonly caused by an infection or a medication. The person's body responds to an organism or chemical with an exaggerated allergic response.
Erythema multiforme can be minor or more severe. The more severe form is also known as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Severe reactions can involve the skin, lungs, kidneys, eyes, and other areas. Rarely, in severe cases, death may occur.
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Erythema multiforme is an exaggerated allergic reaction that may be triggered by the following:
Often, the cause is unknown. Erythema multiforme is more common in men than in women. Once a person has an episode of erythema multiforme, he or she is more likely to have more episodes in the future.