What causes erythema annulare centrifugum?
Often no specific cause for the eruptions is found. However, it has been noted that erythema annulare centrifugum is sometimes linked to underlying diseases and conditions. These include: • Bacterial, fungal and viral infections such as tuberculosis, sinusitis, candidiasis or tinea • Drugs including chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, oestrogen, penicillin and amitriptyline • Cancer (especially the type known as erythema gyratum perstans, in which there are concentric and whirling rings) • Food, most often blue cheese or tomatoes • Recurrent or chronic appendicitis • Cholestatic liver disease (blocked bile system) • Grave’s disease (overactive thyroid gland) In these situations, erythema annulare centrifugum resolves once the underlying cause is treated or the offending drug is stopped.
