Erysipelas

Erysipelas is an infection of superficial dermal lymphatics, mainly caused by group A β-hemolytic streptococci. Triggers include surgical wounds and fissures at nares, external ear canal, below earlobes, anus, penis, and toe webs. Any skin inflammation, especially with fissures/ulcers, provides an entry portal. Minor abrasions, scratching, non-head trauma, unclean cord ligation, vaccination, and chronic leg ulcers may cause it.

Common Symptoms

Necrotizing fasciitis; peritonitis; septicemia; erysipelas-like appearance; chills; low fever; Tu Rui; nausea; erysipelas

Causes and Pathogenesis

Caused by group A β-hemolytic streptococci entering via skin/mucosal abrasions or hematogenously; often secondary to rhinitis, oral/dental foci, tinea pedis, leg ulcers, itchy dermatoses, vaccination, radiation, fissures, or minor friction/scratching; unclean wounds are more prone. Recurrent erysipelas results from bacteria latent in lymphatics reactivating when resistance falls. It occurs with reduced immunity: diabetes, chronic nephritis, hypogammaglobulinemia, alcoholism. Infantile erysipelas may progress to septicemia with high mortality. Malnutrition, excessive alcohol, gamma-globulin deficiency, and renal edema are predisposing factors.

Treatment

Drug therapy, supportive therapy

Preventive Measures

Treat tinea pedis to prevent leg erysipelas; avoid nose-picking to prevent facial erysipelas. Find and treat eczematous/abraded skin lesions. Tinea pedis is the most common overlooked portal. Counsel patients not to pick noses.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Dermatology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.