erysipelas : causes, symptoms, diagnosis, prevention and treatments

ERYSIPELAS

CAUSES | SYMPTOMS | TREATMENT

INTRODUCTION TO ERYSIPELAS• Erysipelas is a bacterial skin infection that

usually affects the top most layer of the skin.• Erysipelas is very rare, but requires

immediate treatment.• Erysipelas is often associated with other skin

infection known as cellulitis, which affects the lower layers of the skin.

• Erysipelas generally occurs on the face and legs.

• If Erysipelas is left untreated, it may cause further complications such as blood clots, heart valve infection, bone and joint infection and abscess.

CAUSES OF ERYSIPELAS

Possible causes of Erysipelas include:

• Insect bites • Ulcers in the skin • Other skin conditions such as psoriasis • Cardiac problems • Diabetes • Overdose of illegal drugs• Surgical incisions• Weakened immune system

SIGN AND SYMPTOMS OF ERYSIPELAS

The symptoms of Erysipelas develop quickly and can be painful. Consult a dermatologist if any of the below mentioned symptoms occur. Common symptoms of Erysipelas include:

• Chills• Swollen glands• Fever Inflammation of the skin• Blisters

SIGN AND SYMPTOMS OF ERYSIPELAS

• Malaise• Itchy skin• Sores on cheeks and nose• Pus filled lumps• Vomiting• Headache• Fatigue• Enlarged lymphatic nodes

DIAGNOSIS OF ERYSIPELASThe Erysipelas can be diagnosed by performing a physical examination. Tell a dermatologist about your medical history and symptoms. He may also scrape the skin to get a sample from the infected area. The sample taken from the affected area is sent for testing and further confirmation of diagnosis.

DIAGNOSIS CAN BE BASED ON• Epidemiology• Clinical sign• Necropsy findings• Serology

TREATMENT FOR ERYSIPELASTreatment options for erysipelas include: • Antibiotics such as penicillin, to slow down the

growth of infection • Antifungal infection if the patient has athlete’s foot • Pain killers to get relief from pain and discomfort• Keep the affected part alleviated to reduce the

swelling • Drink plenty of fluids • Walk around to improve blood flow in the body• Wash the infected area with antifungal soap

PREVENTION FOR ERYSIPELAS• Avoid scratching the infected area

• Keep the sores, cut, and wounds clean and covered

• Apply moisturizer to prevent breaking of skin

• Consult a dermatologist if erysipelas is resulting in eczema

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