Dermatologic Emergencies

dermatology-emergencieskapak-1-0-25

Erysipelas

Adem AZ
University of Health Sciences Faculty of Medicine, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, İstanbul, Türkiye

Az A. Erysipelas. In: Oğuztürk H, Görmeli Kurt N, eds. Dermatologic Emergencies. 1st ed. Ankara: Türkiye Klinikleri; 2025. p.11-4.

ABSTRACT Erysipelas is a bacterial skin infection that primarily affects the upper dermis and extends to the superficial lymphatic veins. It is a specific form of cellulitis, typically characterized by sharply de- marcated, erythematous, and indurated plaques, most commonly affecting the lower extremities and the face. The primary causative agent is Group A Streptococcus, although other streptococci and staphylococci may be implicated. Early symptoms include malaise, fever, and a fiery red skin lesion with welldefined borders. The infection can progress rapidly, necessitating prompt antibiotic treatment, typically with penicillin or amoxicillin, to prevent complications, particularly in high-risk groups such as the el- derly, infants, and immunocompromised individuals. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on physical examination and medical history, with laboratory tests used in complicated cases. While most cases respond well to outpatient antibiotic therapy, severe infections may require hospitalization and intensive care. This section covers the current understanding of erysipelas, its clinical features, risk factors, diag- nostic criteria, treatment options, and preventive strategies.

Keywords: Erysipelas; diagnosis; prevention; therapy

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