For a patient with erythema multiforme, what would you expect regarding the lesion's progression?

Erythema multiforme is an acute condition characterized by distinctive skin lesions. The expectation for the lesion's progression is often that it resolves within a timeframe of approximately 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the severity of the episode and the underlying cause. This resolution is a key aspect of the condition, as most cases are self-limiting and may improve significantly with appropriate management or even spontaneously.

It's important to note that while individual lesions may change during this time, the overall expectation is that the condition will not persist indefinitely. Understanding the typical duration of erythema multiforme helps in managing patient expectations and planning follow-up care.

In contrast, although recurrence can occur in some patients, it's generally not as rapid or frequent as suggested by other options. The lesions do not typically remain stable over a long period, as they usually evolve and then resolve. Pain associated with erythema multiforme can vary but is not universally progressive; rather, it is more common for the lesions to resolve without increasing in severity.