Erysipelas

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CLINICAL DESCRIPTION

A bacterial infection of the upper section of the dermis

Cause: As impetigo

CLINICAL FEATURESSIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Sign Sharply demarcated, rapidly spreading erythema on the affected area
• Pustules, vesicles, bullae and small areas of haemorrhagic necrosis may form
• Fever, chills, malaise and nausea
• Pain on affected area
• Regional lymphadenopathy

INVESTIGATIONS

• As under impetigo

TREATMENT

• Limb elevation
• Cold compresses
• If not complicated (no ulceration, no blistering, no severe systemic complications eg septic shock)
  • As oral therapy for impetigo
• Complicated disease
  • Ceftriaxone 50mg/kg/day IV daily in children for 5 days
  • Adults: Ceftriaxone 1g IV daily for 5 to 7 days
  • Switch to oral treatment as soon as the patient improves