Erythroderma, is a skin disease characterized by intense, widespread reddening of the skin. The rate at which red blood cells settle out in a tube of blood under standardized conditions; a high rate usually indicates the presence of inflammation, also called erythrodermatitis. It may occur by excessive ultraviolet exposure or as a complication of topical therapy or systemical viral or bacterial disease. In psoriatic erythroderma, the skin is almost totally involved, with deep erythema, exfoliation, and associated abnormalities of temperature and cardiovascular regulation. 

The most common pre-existing dermatoses to result in erythroderma include: dermatitis especially atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and in babies, seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis, pityriasis rubra pilaris 

blistering diseases including pemphigus and bullous pemphigoid, cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.

Traditional Chinese medicine views good health as a balance between the body's internal systems and the environment we live in. Displacement of the balance between energy (Qi), blood, yin and yang result to the development of diseases. The impact of environmental conditions, such as wind, heat, cold, dampness and dryness also contribute to the illness. In addition, traditional Chinese medicine views the mind as a powerful influence on a person's health.

Traditional Chinese medicine use the Three Yellow Cleanser (San Huan Xi Ji) to treat about 60% of skin disorders, which include erythroderma, acne, eczema, dermatitis, rashes, and psoriasis. The formula, which has been in use for many centuries, consists of four cleansing herbs with a "cold property" that clears the internal heat (Qing Re), stops itching (Zhi Yang) and prevents secretions (Shou Se) from oozing further. Three of the four herbs used in the formula have a yellow hue, hence the name. Continue to read Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in TCM.