Treatment Considered approach
As already stated, erysipelas complications usually aren’t life-threatening and maximum
cases get resolved post antibiotic therapies without sequelae. Prompt treatment however of
this condition is vital due to potentially rapid Continue reading “Treatment Considered approach”
Approach considerations
In case of classic erysipelas, there is no requirement of laboratory workup for treatment or
diagnosis. However, elevations and leukocytosis in ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and
CRP (C-reactive protein) are common. Routine tissues as well as blood cultures aren’t cost-
effective as they are having extremely poor yield and Continue reading “Approach considerations”
Differential diagnoses
Urticaria
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)
Stasis Dermatitis
Necrotizing Fasciitis
Dermatitis, Contact
Cellulitis
Angioedema
DDX Diagnostic considerations
Erysipelas differential diagnosis includes the following:
Tuberculoid leprosy
Scarlet fever
Polychondritis
Herpes zoster
Granuloma faciale
Erythema nodosum
Erythema induratum
Erysipeloid
Erysipelas carcinomatosum
Dermatophytid
Angioneurotic edema
Erysipelas could get differentiated from the cellulitis by its advancing Continue reading “DDX Diagnostic considerations”
Physical examination
Erysipelas can be found in much lower extremities in nearly 70 to 80 percent of the patients;
face has been affected in five to twenty percent of patients.
Patients would look toxic or healthy based on extent of infection. Starting of Continue reading “Physical examination”
Presentation History
Often patients cannot recall inciting event but history of current pharyngitis or trauma can be
elicited. Prodromal symptoms like high fever, chills, and malaise often start prior to Continue reading “Presentation History”
Prognosis
Prognosis for victims having Erysipelas is commendable. Usually complications of this
infection aren’t life threatening and maximum situations resolve post antibiotic therapy
without sequelae. (This disease can also get resolved spontaneously even without Continue reading “Prognosis”
International occurrence
In European countries, erysipelas is a bit more common. There are isolated cases still ruling,
however, distribution as well as etiology remains similar to that in United States.
Age, sex, and race-related demographics
Erysipelas can affect individuals of all races. This condition has previously been reported as
more common among females but occurs at earlier Continue reading “International occurrence”
Epidemiology
Occurrence in United States
Isolated situations are rule with erysipelas, though epidemics previously have been reported.
Throughout mid-20th century, incidences of erysipelas decreased, possibly because of
antibiotic development, decreased virulence, and Continue reading “Epidemiology”
Risk Factors
There are predisposing factors in this Erysipelas disease that include
Edema or lymphatic obstruction
Saphenous vein grafting happening in lower extremeties
Vagrant lifestyle
Nephrotic syndrome
Paretic limbs
Arteriovenous insufficiency
Immunocompromise: that also includes patients who Continue reading “Risk Factors”