Erysipelas is a bacterial infection of the superficial layer of the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions extending to the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions's superficial lymphatic vessels Lymphatic Vessels Tubular vessels that are involved in the transport of lymph and lymphocytes. Lymphatic Drainage System: Anatomy. This infection presents as a raised, well-defined, tender, and bright red rash Rash Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Typically on the legs or face, but erysipelas can occur anywhere on the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions. This infection occurs when bacteria Bacteria Bacteria are prokaryotic single-celled microorganisms that are metabolically active and divide by binary fission. Some of these organisms play a significant role in the pathogenesis of diseases. Bacteriology enter through the points of skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions breakdown. The most common bacteria Bacteria Bacteria are prokaryotic single-celled microorganisms that are metabolically active and divide by binary fission. Some of these organisms play a significant role in the pathogenesis of diseases. Bacteriology causing this infection is group A Streptococci (especially Streptococcus Streptococcus Streptococcus is one of the two medically important genera of gram-positive cocci, the other being Staphylococcus. Streptococci are identified as different species on blood agar on the basis of their hemolytic pattern and sensitivity to optochin and bacitracin. There are many pathogenic species of streptococci, including S. pyogenes, S. agalactiae, S. pneumoniae, and the viridans streptococci. Streptococcus pyogenes). Diagnosis is based mostly on the history and physical exam. Management includes antibiotics.
Last updated: 1 Mar, 2021
Erysipelas is an infection of the skin Skin The skin, also referred to as the integumentary system, is the largest organ of the body. The skin is primarily composed of the epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deep layer). The epidermis is primarily composed of keratinocytes that undergo rapid turnover, while the dermis contains dense layers of connective tissue. Skin: Structure and Functions involving the upper dermis Dermis A layer of vascularized connective tissue underneath the epidermis. The surface of the dermis contains innervated papillae. Embedded in or beneath the dermis are sweat glands; hair follicles; and sebaceous glands. Skin: Structure and Functions and superficial lymphatics.
Facial erysipelas
Image: “Facial erysipelas” by Dr. Thomas F. Sellers. License: Public DomainFacial erysipelas presenting as an erythematous and edematous plaque Plaque Primary Skin Lesions covering the cheeks Cheeks The part of the face that is below the eye and to the side of the nose and mouth. Melasma and nose Nose The nose is the human body’s primary organ of smell and functions as part of the upper respiratory system. The nose may be best known for inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide, but it also contributes to other important functions, such as tasting. The anatomy of the nose can be divided into the external nose and the nasal cavity. Nose and Nasal Cavity: Anatomy
Image: “Erysipelas-associated glomerulonephritis; a diagnostic puzzle” by Journal of Nephropharmacology. License: CC BY 4.0Erysipelas of the ear
Image: “Erysipel2” by Klaus D. Peter. License: CC BY 3.0Erysipelas associated with the lymphedema Lymphedema Edema due to obstruction of lymph vessels or disorders of the lymph nodes. Lymphatic Filariasis (Elephantiasis) or the upper extremity
Image: “Bilateral atrophic squirrhus of breast in neglected breast cancer Breast cancer Breast cancer is a disease characterized by malignant transformation of the epithelial cells of the breast. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer and 2nd most common cause of cancer-related death among women. Breast Cancer: case report” by Louati D, Trigui K, Abid D, Kammoun S, Dermech M, Chaabane K, Amouri H. License: CC BY 2.0History:
Physical exam:
Laboratory studies:
Imaging:
Cultures Cultures Klebsiella:
Uncomplicated cases:
Cases requiring hospitalization Hospitalization The confinement of a patient in a hospital. Delirium and intravenous (IV) antibiotics:
Surgical debridement Debridement The removal of foreign material and devitalized or contaminated tissue from or adjacent to a traumatic or infected lesion until surrounding healthy tissue is exposed. Stevens-Johnson Syndrome: may be required for severe cases with skin necrosis Skin Necrosis Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever