6.2. Skin and Soft Tissue Infection - Erysipelas

Question 1

What type of infection is Erysipelas?

Answer 1

An infection of the Upper Dermis

Question 2

How is Erysipelas described?

Answer 2

Distinct Red area with Elevated Borders

Question 3

What are the symptoms of Erysipelas?

Answer 3

1. Painful, red area (no central clearing)
2. Associated Fever
3. Regional Lymphadenopathy
4. Regional Lymphangitis

Question 4

What is the most common causative organism of Erysipelas?

Answer 4

Streptococcal Pyogenes

Question 5

Where does Erysipelas usually occur?

Answer 5

1. 70-80% of cases involve the Lower Limb
2. 5-20% affect the face
3. Tends to occur in areas of:
4. a) Pre-existing Lymphoedema
5. b) Venous Stasis
6. c) Obesity
7. d) Paraparesis
8. e) Diabetes Mellitus

Question 6

Does Erysipelas involve intact skin?

Answer 6

Yes, it may do

Question 7

Does Erysipelas have a high recurrence rate?

Answer 7

Yes, 30% in 3 years

Question 8

What is the treatment of Erysipelas?

Answer 8

A combination of anti-staphylococcal and anti-streptococcal antibiotics
Note - in extensive disease, admission of I.V. antibiotics and rest may be needed