What is the difference between cellulitis and erysipelas?

Cellulitis is an infection of the deep dermis and subcutaneous tissue; erysipelas is more superficial, involving only the upper dermis and superficial lymphatics.

Which causes cellulitis and erysipelas?

Cellulitis is mainly caused by two bacteria: Staphylococcus aureus and beta-haemolytic streptococcus. We all have bacteria, including these ones, living harmlessly on our skin. You can develop cellulitis if the skin is broken and the bacteria can delve down deep into the skin.

What antibiotics treat erysipelas?

Penicillin administered orally or intramuscularly is sufficient for most cases of classic erysipelas and should be given for 5 days, but if the infection has not improved, treatment duration should be extended. A first-generation cephalosporin may be used if the patient has an allergy to penicillin.

What is the most common cause of erysipelas?

The most common cause is group A streptococcal bacteria, especially Streptococcus pyogenes. Erysipelas results in a fiery red rash with raised edges that can easily be distinguished from the skin around it. The affected skin may be warm to the touch.

Where is erysipelas found?

Erysipeloid, a localized skin infection, occasionally occurs in people who work with infected animals or process meats, poultry, fish or animal by-products. In humans, the disease referred to as “erysipelas” is actually caused by a streptococcal infection.

Can erysipelas be cured?

Oral antibiotics (taken by mouth) are prescribed if your doctor diagnoses erysipelas. If the condition is severe, they may recommend intravenous (through the vein) antibiotics. Antibiotics used to treat erysipelas include: Oral therapy: penicillin.

How serious is erysipelas?

Erysipelas can be serious but rarely fatal. It has a rapid and favorable response to antibiotics. Local complications are more common than systemic complications. The most common cause is group A streptococci.

Can erysipelas cause death?

Although generally easily and successfully treated with oral antibiotics, with a mortality rate of less than 1% in treated cases, erysipelas can be fatal when associated with bacteremia in very young, elderly, or immunocompromised patients.

Can erysipelas lead to sepsis?

The most common complications of erysipelas include abscess, gangrene, and thrombophlebitis. Less common complications (< 1%) are acute glomerulonephritis, endocarditis, septicemia, and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.

What is erysipelas in cellulitis?

Erysipelas is a form of cellulitis with marked superficial inflammation, typically affecting the lower limbs and the face. The most common pathogens in adults are streptococci and Staphylococcus aureus. Cellulitis and erysipelas can result in local necrosis and abscess formation.

What are the clinical features of erysipelas?

What are the clinical features of erysipelas? Symptoms and signs of erysipelas are usually abrupt in onset and often accompanied by fevers, chills and shivering.

What is the most common pathogen associated with cellulitis?

The most common pathogens in adults are streptococci and Staphylococcus aureus. Cellulitis and erysipelas can result in local necrosis and abscess formation. Around a quarter of affected people have more than one episode of cellulitis within 3 years.

How can erysipelas be prevented?

If other conditions have contributed to the attack, such as eczema, athlete’s foot, or diabetes, then treating those conditions properly can help prevent further outbreaks of erysipelas. Treating breaks to the skin swiftly can also help.