Etiology

Etiology

Streptococci are primary causes of Erysipelas. Maximum facial infections can be attributed to

A group streptococci while increasing percentage of the lower extremity infections have been

caused due to non-group a streptococci. The streptococcal toxins are assumed to

contribute

towards brisk inflammation that is typical of such infection. There isn’t any clear proof that

has come out other than bacteria causing this Erysipelas though coexistence with streptococci

is there at area of inoculation.

Role played by MRSA (methicillin-resistant S aureas) and Staphylococcus aureus remain

controversial. There are no conclusive evidences that demonstrate pathogenic role typically

for staphylococci in Erysipelas. The predictable response of this infection to penicillin even

when the S aureus is there, argues against S aureus as etiologic agent. However, analogous to

what takes place in staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome or bullous impetigo skin

syndrome, exotoxins from the co-existing S aureaus can be accounted for clinical

presentation of the bullous erysipelas.