Erythema nodosum in association with celiac disease

Pediatr Dermatol. 2004 May-Jun;21(3):227-30. doi: 10.1111/j.0736-8046.2004.21307.x.

Abstract

We present a 16-year-old girl with a 4-year history of chronic persistent erythema nodosum. Recurrently low serum iron values suggested the possibility of a malabsorption syndrome. The presence of antitransglutaminase and antiendomysium antibodies and the jejunal biopsy specimen findings showed an underlying celiac disease. On a strict gluten-free diet, the skin lesions resolved and the girl has since remained symptom free for 9 months. Thus celiac disease can be a triggering factor for erythema nodosum. In the chronic form of the skin lesions, serologic testing for this specific enteropathy may be justified.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Celiac Disease / complications*
  • Celiac Disease / diagnosis
  • Celiac Disease / diet therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Erythema Nodosum / diagnosis
  • Erythema Nodosum / diet therapy
  • Erythema Nodosum / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans