How can erysipelas be treated?
How can erysipelas be treated?
Treat erysipelas with oral penicillin or, in penicillin-allergic patients, erythromycin; in severe cases, use parenteral penicillin or, in penicillin-allergic patients, ceftriaxone or cefazolin.
What type of infection is erysipelas?
Erysipelas is an infection of the upper layers of the skin (superficial). 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.
How do humans get erysipelas?
Erysipelas develops when bacteria enter the skin through cuts or sores. Skin injuries that increase the chances of developing erysipelas include: cuts to the skin, ulcers, or bed sores. insect or animal bites.
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.
How do you treat erysipelas at home?
Any pain, swelling, or discomfort can be treated with rest, a cold compress, and elevation of the affected limb. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen) can be used to relieve pain and fever.
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.
What is the best antibiotic for erysipelas?
Penicillin is the standard therapy for typical erysipelas, although coverage for Staphylococcus aureus should be considered in the appropriate setting.
What does erysipelas look like?
Erysipelas affects the upper layers of the skin. The typical symptom is a painful and shiny light-red swelling of a quite clearly defined area of skin. Red streaks leading from that area may be a sign that the infection has started to spread along the lymph vessels too. In more severe cases, blisters may form as well.