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.