Erythema Chronicum Migrans
Erythema Chronicum Migrans: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Erythema Chronicum Migrans (ECM) is a skin condition often caused by a bacterial infection or a tick bite. It is a type of skin rash that can appear anywhere on the body, including the scalp, trunk, arms, lower legs, feet, and hands. ECM is considered to be the earliest symptom of Lyme disease.
ECM is typically circular in nature and begins as a red flare that gradually expands outward. Though usually flat and pale, it may become raised and red in people who have recently been exposed to a tick bite or infection. ECM can vary in size and circumference, and is typically non-itchy and non-scaly.
Causes
ECM is most commonly caused by a tick bite. Ticks are small, blood-sucking arthropods. If their bite contains certain types of bacteria, such as Borrelia burgdorferi, a person may develop the infection and skin rash associated with ECM. ECM is often the first sign of Lyme disease, although it’s not always indicative of an infection by Borrelia burgdorferi.
In rare cases, people can contract ECM from other insects or contact with soil, water, or other infected objects.
Symptoms
In most cases, the main symptom of ECM is a rash. It typically appears as a flat, circular area of discoloration between three and 30 centimeters in diameter. In some cases, the area may be slightly raised or may appear as a bull’s-eye pattern.
The rash may also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
Diagnosis and Treatment
A doctor can diagnose ECM with a physical examination. They may also perform lab tests, such as a blood test or skin biopsy, to look for signs of infection. Once ECM is diagnosed, a person may benefit from antibiotics. Antibiotics work by killing the infection-causing bacteria. It’s important to start treatment as soon as ECM is identified to help reduce the chances of developing long-term symptoms associated with Lyme disease.
In some cases, the rash may go away on its own without the need for treatment. However, it’s important to speak with a doctor if the rash does not go away after a few weeks or if symptoms begin to worsen.