ERYSIPELAS
Erysipelas is a bacterial infection typically with a skin rash involving the upper layers of the skin.
- In recent times, it was discovered that not only does erysipelas affect the face, it can also affect the legs, arms, and torso.
- The National Organization for Rare Disorder estimates that about 80% of cases occur on the leg.
- It is an acute infection that can be treated effectively with antibiotics.
- Anyone can get the condition, but it most commonly affects infants and adults over the age of 60.
- If left untreated, an individual may be at risk for various complications, including blood clots, infected heart valves, joint and bone infections, abscess.
CAUSES
Erysipelas develops when Streptococcus bacteria penetrates the outer layer of the skin. These bacteria are present and normally live on the skin without causing any harm. They can enter the skin through skin injuries or sores and can cause infection. Skin conditions that break the skin barrier can also increase the chances of getting the condition.
Skin injuries and conditions that increase the chances of getting the condition includes
- Insect or animal bites
- Cuts to the skin
- Eczema
- Impetigo
- Athlete’s foot
- Psoriasis
- Injection of illegal drugs such as heroin
- Ulcers in the skin
- Surgical Incisions
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms typically include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Swollen glands
- High temperature
- Shivering
- Feeling unwell
The skin may appear
- Swollen and shiny
- Blisters on the affected area
- Petechiae (small red spots)
- Warm and tender to touch
- Painful area of skin with a raised edge
Certain factors that can predispose an individual to a greater chance of getting the infection include:
- Obesity
- Alcoholism
- Poorly controlled diabetes
- Weakened immune system
DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
DIAGNOSIS
The condition can be diagnosed by the appearance and symptoms of the affected area. Your doctor will examine your skin for a swollen, reddened and warm area in mostly in your face and legs.
Your doctor may also ask if you have had a recent infection or experienced a minor trauma such as a cut as this may suggest the possible cause of your infection.
TREATMENT
Erysipelas is curable. It is necessary to begin treatment as fast as possible to limit the chance of further complications.
The most common form of treatment is using antibiotics such as penicillin. A mild case of erysipelas may be treated with an oral prescription at home.
More serious cases may be treated at a hospital where the antibiotics may be given intravenously.
Painkiller may be given to reduce discomfort and fever
Other ways to relieve pain and discomfort and speed healing process may include:
- Cooling packs may be placed on the skin
- Lotions may be applied to keep the skin from being dry and crack
- Avoid skin scratching
- Treatment of any breaks in the skin, often with a prescribed cream applied directly
In rare cases, where erysipelas has caused healthy skin tissue to die, a surgical operation may be needed to cut away such dead tissue.
If other conditions such as eczema, athlete’s foot or diabetes, then treating such underlying condition properly can help prevent further outbreaks of erysipelas.