Erysipelas Flashcards
What is erysipelas?
A form of cellulitis involving the dermis and upper subcutaneous tissues
What is the usual cause of erysipelas?
Group A streptococcus on scratches or otherwise infected areas
What are some less common causative organisms of erysipelas?
- Strep pneumoniae
- Klebsiella pneumoniae
- Haemophilus influenzae
- Yersina enterocolitica
- Moraxella
What are the risk factors for erysipelas?
- Elderly, infants and children
- Immunodeficiency
- Diabetes
- Alcoholism
- Skin ulceration
- Fungal infections
- Impaired lymphatic drainage
What areas are most commonly affected in erysipelas?
- Face and legs (most common)
- Arm and upper thighs
What systemic symptoms can often precede skin lesion in erysipelas?
- Malaise
- Chills
- High fever
- Potentially vomiting
How quickly can erysipelas progress?
Within 48 hours
What lesion symptoms are often present in erysipelas?
- Pruritus
- Burning
- Tenderness
How does the lesion in erysipelas progress?
Begins as a small erythematous patch which then becomes a fiery red, indurated, tense and shiny plaque
How do the margins of erysipelas appear?
Sharply demarcated and advancing with rapid enlargement over 3-6 days
What sort of lesions can severe erysipelas produce?
- Vesicles
- Bullae
- Petechiae
- Frank necrosis
When does the central erythema start to clear in erysipelas?
Within 7-10 days
How is erysipelas investigated?
Same as cellulitis
What are the differentials for erysipelas?
- Herpes zoster
- Angioedema
- Contact dermatitis
- Diffuse inflammatory carcinoma of the breast
- Cellulitis
How is erysipelas managed?
Same as cellulitis
