Erythema nodosum (EN) is an inflammatory condition characterized by inflammation of the fat cells under the skin, resulting in tender red nodules or lumps that are usually seen on both shins. It can be caused by a variety of conditions, and typically resolves spontaneously within 30 days. It is common in young people aged 12–20 years. Signs and symptoms
Pre-eruptive phase
The first signs of erythema nodosum are often flu-like symptoms such as a fever, cough, malaise, and aching joints. Some people also experience stiffness or swelling in the joints and weight loss. Eruptive stage
Erythema nodosum is characterised by 1–2-inch (25–51 mm) nodules (rounded lumps) below the skin surface, usually on the shins. These subcutaneous nodules can appear anywhere on the body, but the most common sites are the shins, arms, thighs, and torso. Each nodule typically disappears after around two weeks, though new ones may continue to form for up to six or eight weeks. A new nodule usually appears red and is hot and firm to the touch. The redness starts to fade and it gradually becomes softer and smaller until it disappears. Each nodule usually heals completely without scarring over the course of about two weeks.
Another study found that for craniopagus twins, their connection to each other is comparable to our normal appendages and that their bodies have obvious overlapping physically and psychologically. Because most cases of craniopagus twins are unique, the research outlining general connections between craniopagus twins is limited. However, this example provides insight into the effects of a union between twins who essentially share the same sensory relay system in the thalamus. History
Conjoined twinning is one of the oldest known birth defects in history and examples with humans fascination with twins is extremely evident throughout historical literature. Although there are cases of conjoined twins dating back to as early as the 10th century, it was not until 1491 that the first case was documented. Apart from that, Sebastian Münster’s Cosmographia universalis provides the true first account of craniopagus twins who happened to live for ten years, exceeding many expectations during that time. He describes the set of twins as being a unique malformation and a punishment from their mothers mistake. In French barber surgeon Ambroise Paré’s 16th-century book, On Monsters and Marvels, various types of "supernatural" twinning are illustrated and described as "monstrous and marvelous creatures that proceed from the judgment of God", suggesting that conjoined twins and specifically craniopagus twins were viewed as literal monsters in the 16th century. See also
Conjoined twins
Parasitic twin
Twin

References


== External links ==