Erysipelas Cellulitis - Symptoms & Treatment

Erysipelas cellulitis is a superficial bacterial skin infection that characteristically extends into the cutaneous lymphatics. It particularly affects infants and the elderly, but can affect any age group. Almost all erysipelas is caused by Group A beta haemolytic streptococci. Erysipelas cellulitis can affect anyone. It is characterised by pronounced superficial inflammation. The lower limbs are by far the most common sites, but any area can be affected. Both cellulitis and erysipelas begin with minor trauma, such as a bruise. It can also begin at the site of a burn, surgical incision, or wound, and usually affects an arm or leg. Erysipelas differs from cellulitis in that the inflamed area is distinct from surrounding skin - it is raised, firm, and the redness is sharply marked off. Bacterial inoculation into an area of skin trauma is the initial event in developing erysipelas. The infection spreads rapidly in underlying tissues, which is not apparent from the appearance of the overlying skin. Erysipelas is often found on the face; however, it can also develop on the arms and legs. Erysipelas is a highly contagious disease that was formerly dangerous to life; however, it can now be quickly controlled by antibiotic therapy.

Causes of Erysipelas cellulitis

The common causes and risk factor's of Erysipelas cellulitis include the following:

• A variety of bacteria.
• Streptococci (particularly Streptococcus pyogenes ) and Staphylococcus aureus.
• A poor immune system.
• Have poorly controlled diabetes.
• Normal skin flora or by exogenous bacteria.

Symptoms of Erysipelas cellulitis

Some sign and symptoms related to Erysipelas cellulitis are as follows:

• High fever and chills.
• Malaise.
• The skin is brownish-grey in dark-skinned people, bright red in Caucasian skin.
• Pain and swelling are likely to be prominent features.
• The lower leg is the most common site for cellulitis to develop but it can affect any area of the skin.
• The infected area may spread and is usually tender.
• People who have one of these infections may feel worn out and sick.

Treatment of Erysipelas cellulitis

Here is list of the methods for treating Erysipelas cellulitis:

• A course of antibiotic tablets will usually clear cellulitis.
• Streptococci cause most cases of erysipelas; thus, penicillin has remained first-line therapy. Penicillin administered orally or intramuscularly is sufficient for most cases of classic erysipelas and should be given for 10-20 days.
• Patients should be advised to rest and to use cool compresses on the affected areas.
• A cephalosporin or macrolide, such as erythromycin or azithromycin, may be used if the patient has an allergy to penicillin.
• People with severe cellulitis or those not improving with antibiotic tablets may need antibiotic injections.
• If you have a severe case of cellulitis or erysipelas, you may need to go to the hospital for intravenous medication.

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