Abstract
The effectiveness of systemic corticosteroids in erythema multiforme major (EMM) is controversial. We therefore evaluated the efficacy of corticosteroids in the treatment of EMM in a prospective study of 16 children with EMM admitted to our department within 3 days from the onset of rash. Ten patients (group A) received bolus infusions of methylprednisolone (4 mg/kg/day) while six had only supportive treatment (group B). The early use of corticosteroids compared to supportive treatment resulted in: (1) significant reduction of the period of fever (4.0 ± 1.9 vs 9.5 ± 4.2 days P = 0.01); (2) reduction of the period of acute eruption (7.0 ± 3.3 versus 9.8 ± 3.0 days P = 0.08); and (3) milder signs of prostration. Complications were minimal in both groups.
Conclusion The early and short course of corticosteroids favourably influences the course of erythema multiforme major in children.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 29 March 1996 / Accepted: 30 July 1996
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Kakourou, T., Klontza, D., Soteropoulou, F. et al. Corticosteroid treatment of erythema multiforme major (Stevens-Johnson syndrome) in children. Eur J Pediatr 156, 90–93 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/s004310050561
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s004310050561