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Skin conditions are the most common extraintestinal complication of Crohn’s disease other than arthritis.
Erythema Nodosum
“Erythema nodosum causes tender pink or red bumps to form under the skin, usually on the shins,” says Laura Winterfield, MD, MPH, an associate professor of dermatology at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. At first, the lesions can appear as flat lumps about an 1 inch in size, but within a few days, they can change in color before fading away.
Although erythema nodosum is unpredictable, it may accompany a Crohn’s flare and then fade when those symptoms are back under control. Wearing compression stockings and keeping the legs elevated can also help manage erythema nodosum.
Pyoderma Gangrenosum
These skin lesions — which appear as red-to-purple pus-filled blisters — form into skin ulcers that can eventually join together. They’re more likely to develop in areas where skin has been damaged or irritated, such as ostomy sites or other locations of trauma.
“Although these ulcers look infected, they’re usually not, so antibiotics don’t help,” says Dr. Winterfield. Pyoderma gangrenosum isn’t preventable, but avoiding skin trauma may decrease the risk. Treatment may require high doses of steroids.
Aphthous Stomatitis
This skin condition causes small mouth ulcers, also called canker sores. They commonly occur in people when intestinal symptoms flare up, then disappear when those symptoms subside. They are painful, sensitive, and usually form between the gums and lower lip or on the tongue.
Eating a balanced Crohn’s diet may help prevent canker sores, but to alleviate the symptoms, you may want to try using a medicinal mouthwash.
Skin Tags
Skin tags, when they appear in people with Crohn’s, can develop around the anus, becoming uncomfortable. When the tags become large and rubbery, it may signal a flare. You can best prevent and manage them with good hygiene, warm baths, and soothing ointments.
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