erythema

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erythema (e-ri-theem-ă) n. flushing of the skin due to dilatation of the blood capillaries in the dermis. e. ab igne a reticular pigmented rash on the lower legs or elsewhere caused by persistent exposure to radiant heat. e. infectiosum (fifth disease, slapped cheek syndrome) a common benign infectious viral disease of children, characterized by fever and a rash, first on the cheeks and later on the trunk and extremities, that disappears after several days. e. multiforme a condition characterized by so-called target lesions that may be recurrent and follow herpes simplex infection. e. nodosum a condition characterized by tender bruiselike swellings on the shins. It is often associated with streptococcal infection.

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