Erythema Multiforme Minor with Rare Etiology

Erythema Multiforme is an acute, selflimiting inflammatory mucocutaneous condition caused by a hypersensitivity reaction with distinctive clinical eruption manifested as iris or target lesions. It is a life-threatening mucocutaneous disorder where early diagnosis and management are of utmost importance. Erythema Multiforme results from a cell-mediated immune reaction against a precipitating factor. It is clinically characterized by a ‘‘minor’’ form and a ‘‘major’’ form. In the Erythema Multiforme minor, only one mucous membrane is affected and usually is the oral mucosa. Erythema Multiforme is diagnosed based on stringent clinical findings which are pathognomic as microscopic evaluation carries the least significance. The range of possible etiologies for the oral disease is immense including infectious agents, drugs, food additives, etc. We report a case of a 68-year-old female who presented with a complaint of painful ulcers and burning sensation in her mouth making her difficult to eat & drink. History revealed the usage of clove to get rid of tooth pain following which she developed ulcers in the mouth. In the present case, based on patient history, the clove was found to be a probable etiological agent. The patient was successfully treated with corticosteroids adhering to systemic corticosteroid administrative protocols and no remissions and exacerbations were noticed in 6 months follow up. Early diagnosis of the disease remains essential to promptly initiate appropriate management and proper follow up. Recognition and withdrawal or prevention of contact with the etiological agent is an important step in the management of EM. In the present case, the clove was found to be a probable etiological agent.