Figurate erythema

Figurate erythema describes a rash linked to various skin conditions, characterized by multiple red, wavy rings, concentric circles, and arcs, typically recognised as annular patterns.^[1]

Figurate erythema
Concentric circles in Lyme disease (example of a figurate erythema)
Specialty	Dermatology
Symptoms	Multiple red, wavy rings, concentric circles, arcs[1]
Types	Classic types:erythema annulare centrifugum, erythema gyratum repens, erythema migrans, erythema marginatum[1]

Classification

Four classic types have been reported as erythema annulare centrifugum, erythema gyratum repens, erythema migrans and erythema marginatum, though the pattern is seen in numerous other conditions.^[2][3] Causes may also be divided into infectious, malignant, and drug reactions.^[4]

Signs and symptoms

Figurate erythema is typically characterized by multiple red, wavy rings, concentric circles, and arcs, typically recognised as annular patterns.^[1] The initial lesion is typically a slightly raised reddish bump which extends outwards and may have a trailing scale.^[4] The lesions may be fixed, transient, or migratory.^[4]

Diagnosis

Distinguishing between the varying types may be easier by describing its location, how rapidly it expands, and the characteristics of its border.^[1] Diagnosis is often by exclusion.^[2] To confirm a diagnosis, a biopsy may be required.^[1]

History

The term was first described by Thomas Fox in 1889.^[3]