Erythema multiforme major is associated with which medications?

Erythema multiforme major is associated with which medications?

• A. Sulfa drugs
• B. Beta-lactams
• C. Phenytoin
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Erythema multiforme major is a hypersensitivity reaction affecting the skin and mucous membranes that can be triggered by several drugs. Among the best-established triggers are sulfa drugs, beta-lactam antibiotics, and anticonvulsants like phenytoin. Since each of these drug classes has been linked to EM major, all of the listed options are potential culprits, making “all of the above” the best answer. In practice, identifying and stopping the offending medication plus supportive care is the key management, with mucosal involvement more prominent than in EM minor.

Erythema multiforme major is a hypersensitivity reaction affecting the skin and mucous membranes that can be triggered by several drugs. Among the best-established triggers are sulfa drugs, beta-lactam antibiotics, and anticonvulsants like phenytoin. Since each of these drug classes has been linked to EM major, all of the listed options are potential culprits, making “all of the above” the best answer. In practice, identifying and stopping the offending medication plus supportive care is the key management, with mucosal involvement more prominent than in EM minor.