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Erysipelas
Definition
Erysipelas is a type of skin infection (cellulitis).
Causes
Erysipelas is usually caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. The condition may affect both children and adults.
Risk factors include:
- A cut in the skin
- Problems with drainage through the veins or lymph system
- Skin sores (ulcers)
In the past, the face was the most common site of infection. Now it accounts for only about 20% of cases. The legs are affected in up to 80% of cases.
Symptoms
- Blisters
- Fever, shaking, and chills
- Painful, very red, swollen, and warm skin underneath the sore (lesion)
- Skin lesion with a raised border
- Sores (erysipelas lesions) on the cheeks and bridge of the nose
Exams and Tests
Erysipelas is diagnosed based on how the skin looks. A biopsy of the skin is usually not needed.
Treatment
Antibiotics such as penicillin are used to eliminate the infection. In severe cases, antibiotics may need to be given through an IV (intravenous line).
Those who have repeated episodes of erysipelas may need long-term antibiotics.
Outlook (Prognosis)
With treatment, the outcome is good. It may take a few weeks for the skin to return to normal. Peeling is common.
Possible Complications
In some patients, the bacteria may travel to the blood. This results in a condition called bacteremia. The infection may spread to the heart valves, joints, and bones.
Other complications include:
- Return of infection
- Septic shock
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you have a skin sore (lesion) that looks like erysipelas.
Prevention
Keep your skin healthy by avoiding dry skin and preventing cuts and scrapes. This may reduce the risk for erysipelas.
References
Habif TP. Bacterial infections. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 9.
Bisno AL, Stevens DL. Streptococcus pyogenes. In: Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R, eds. Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2009:chap 198.
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
