Erythema Multiforme — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateOral PathologyErythema MultiformeMFDS Part 1

Which combination of clinical findings is most characteristic of erythema multiforme with oral involvement?

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Correct answer: B — Target lesions on the skin with diffuse painful oral erosions and haemorrhagic crusting of the lips

Explanation lettering: D = shown as A · A = shown as B · E = shown as C · B = shown as D · C = shown as E

A is correct. Erythema multiforme is an acute immune-mediated mucocutaneous disorder whose characteristic cutaneous finding is the target or iris lesion. Oral involvement produces multiple painful, widespread erosions or ulcers, often with bleeding and haemorrhagic crusting of the lips. This combination is particularly characteristic of more extensive mucocutaneous disease. Bilateral reticular striae suggest oral lichen planus. Wipeable plaques with an erythematous base indicate pseudomembranous candidosis. Unilateral vesicles and ulcers restricted to a trigeminal distribution suggest herpes zoster. A persistent firm palatal nodule is more consistent with a minor salivary-gland lesion or neoplasm.

Reference: British and Irish Society for Oral Medicine, Erythema Multiforme, clinical appearance section, 2019 (review date 2022), https://www.qvh.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Erythema-Multiforme.pdf