Erythroderma

Abstract

Erythroderma (exfoliative dermatitis) is a clinical syndrome characterized by extensive erythema involving greater than 90 % of the skin surface. It may be the result of many different dermatological conditions including preexisting dermatoses, drug reactions, and malignancy. Hospitalization may be required for initial evaluation and treatment since many of these patients are elderly and the skin involvement is extensive leading to significant mortality risk. Patients need to be monitored to ensure that temperature, water, protein, and electrolyte homeostasis are maintained. Erythroderma accounts for 1 % of all dermatologic hospital admissions [1].