Abstract

Recurrent erythema multiforme may occur in allergic or viral reactivation. Chronic inflammation in an area can damage skin structures, including hair follicles, and lead to permanent baldness. Case: A middle-aged woman has suffered from recurrent scalp and facial wounds for 5 years. The patient said that the recurrence of the wound was triggered by many things, especially chickens and eggs. On clinical examination, some of the patient's lips were covered with blackish crusts, and several hypopigmented lesions were noted. The reddish crusts were on the scalp, and part of the scalp was hairless. Patients are given Betamethasone N topically. The tablet, containing B vitamins, high levels of vitamin C, and zinc, was prescribed daily to support the immune system. The patient was advised to avoid foods that cause recurrence. A week later, the crust was gone, but alopecia was noted on the smooth head without ostia, and several areas of hypopigmentation on the face and lips where the lesions were located. In erythema multiforme that recurs with a very high frequency and long term, damage to the deep structures of the skin can occur. On the scalp, damage to the hair follicles may be replaced with connective tissue, resulting in permanent alopecia areata cicatricial.