Erythema Intertrigo, caused by the irritating secretions pent up between two layers of superimposed skin, as under the breast. about the buttocks and scrotum, is easily prevented by separating the layers of skin with a piece of lint dusted over on both sides with Zinc Powder or Fuller's Earth. When the intertrigo has become established an astringent oint ment of Zinc and Lead may be applied. In chronic cases a true eczema may develop, which will require Tarry preparations. The Erythema Gluteale which affects the buttocks and perineum of infants is of the same nature, and is caused by the contact of urine-soaked napkins. This should be treated by the application of a very stiff ointment which will not easily melt, as .1 oz. powdered Starch, .1 oz. ('alamina, and 2 OZ. Zinc Ointment or Lassar's Paste without the salicylic acid.
Erythema Iris should be treated with Salicylates internally and Lassar's Paste locally. Allan treats this disease as a superficial burn by applying pads of wool soaked in a r per cent. solution of Picric Acid.
Erythema Maltiforme, when not of true rheumatic origin, may be due to dietetic errors or to the production of toxic substances in the alimentary canal. As the eruption rarely lasts more than a few weeks, little need he done locally save by applying a (lusting powder or astringent lotion. Constitutional treatment is of more importance, and the suspicion of its rheumatic origin suggests that Salicylates may be employed as a routine internally. When there is much exudation Ichthyol in 2o-min.
doses or Chloride of Calcium (2o grs.) may be given three or four times a day and the dietary minutely scrutinised with the view of discovering some irritating or toxic ingredient. Saline Purgatives are clearly indicated.
Erythema Nadosum, though sometimes of tuberculous origin, is closely allied to the last mentioned. As much pain and tension are usually present, local treatment should always be combined with rest in the horizontal position with the legs elevated. The best results are obtain able by enveloping the legs in several layers of warm, absorbent wool, and applying with moderate pressure a light gauze or woven bandage from the toes to the knee. Should there be any erythema multiforme also present Salicylates may be given. Mild examples of the disease will require nothing but a coating of Collodion, severer types may be treated by a Lead and Opium lotion applied under oiled silk, and in very painful cases a warm poultice smeared over with the green extract of Belladonna or fomentations of Poppy capsules may be tried, but as a rule moist heat is not so suitable as dry heat and moderate pressure.
Brownlie paints the nodes freely with a solution of Ichthyol (t part) dissolved in a mixture of spirit and ether (3 parts).
Erythema Pernio is the name given to Chilblain, and its treatment is detailed under its own heading.