Erythema Nodosum Following EBV Infection in a Child

摘要

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of the eight known human herpesviruses, which is widespread in nature and infects most of the world population. In infants and young children, primary infection is usually asymptomatic or produces an acute illness that is often not recognized as being due to EBV. It has a well-established oncogenic potential, and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various autoimmune diseases. Here is reported the case of a 32-months old boy, who presented with a history of two days of low-grade fever, pain in both legs, swollen ankles and inability to walk. On physical examination, the child appeared moderately ill, without fever. On both shins were observed nodules 2 - 3 cm in diameter, red to bluish in color, firm and poorly demarcated. Clinically, a diagnosis of Erythema nodosus was performed. Laboratory examinations revealed increased inflammatory parameters. After a full workup, EBV was established as the causative agent. Erythema nodosum is the most common form of panniculitis in children;however, it is relatively uncommon in the pediatric population. It is a self-limited disease, and most of infectious origin in children. Although uncommon, EBV infection is a potential cause of pediatric erythema nodosum.