Erythema Multiforme

A definite cause may be ascribed to certain cases of the clinical entity that we call erythema multiforme. The rôle of certain drugs, antitoxins and serums has long been recognized. Cases developing following the ingestion of stale meat, fish, oysters, etc., have been seen sufficiently often to warrant the assumption of direct causation, theoretically being due to the absorption of products of decomposition, bacteria or their products. It would seem that a few reported cases have been due to uterine irritation, a neurosis, etc. Parker and Hazen studied a group of cases occurring in the course of such diseases as typhoid and diphtheria, and were inclined to favor a toxic theory. The theory of absorption of intestinal toxins has long been prominent in the literature. Lain, Chipman and others have recently associated erythema multiforme with focal infections about the teeth, tonsils and accessory air sinuses. Mahon, Vidal and others, from