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Erysipelas
Erysipelas

Erysipelas

Introduction

Erysipelas is an acute superficial dermal infection commonly caused by Streptococci.

Signs & symptoms

• A prodrome of fever, chills, and malaise
• Locally, a large erythematous, swelling, well-demarcated, and usually raised lesion
• Regional adenopathy is frequent
• Superficial blistering secondary to edema,
• Superficial hemorrhage, may be sometimes be observed

Diagnostic criteria


• A prodrome of fever, chills, and malaise
• Locally, a large erythematous, swelling, well-demarcated, and usually raised lesion
• Regional adenopathy is frequent
• Superficial blistering secondary to edema,
• Superficial hemorrhage, may be sometimes be observed

Investigation

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Treatment

  • Non-Pharmacological treatment

    • Bed rest
    • Elevation of the affected part
    • Venous compression is recommended during the acute phase and subsequent weeks to reduce the risk of lymphedema
    • Prophylaxis of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) should be considered depending on presence of other risk factors

  • Pharmacological

    Weak Potassium Permanganate soaks, 1:40000 (0.025%) solution 12 hourly for 3–4 days, with each session lasting for 15–20 minutes

    Silver sulfadiazine cream 12 hourly daily

    OR

    Mupirocin 2% 12 hourly for 5–7 days

    OR

    Fusidic Acid 2% 12 hourly for 5–7 days

    AND

    Phenoxymethylpenicillin (PO) for 5–7 days. Adults: 250–500mg 6 hourly; Children: 25mg/kg 6 hourly

    OR

    Flucloxacillin (PO) for 5–7 days. Adults: 500mg 6 hourly; Children: 25–50/kg 6 hourly

    Surgical Treatment

    • Incision and drainage (in case of secondary abscess formation)

Prevention

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Updated on,

3 Novemba 2020 10:25:25

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References

    1.STG
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