First-Line Treatment for Recurrent Erythema Multiforme — HSV-Associated or Idiopathic

This protocol applies to patients experiencing recurrent erythema multiforme, covering both HSV-associated and idiopathic presentations. Recurrent episodes require a sustained preventive strategy rather than reactive management of individual flares alone.

The primary objectives are reduction in the frequency of erythema multiforme recurrences and induction of remission — an outcome that can be difficult to maintain long-term.

In both HSV-associated and idiopathic recurrent EM, first-line management centres on continuous oral antiviral prophylaxis — the specific agents, selection criteria, and duration parameters are set out in the full structured protocol.