Is erysipelas contagious?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 20, 2024
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Erysipelas is an acute inflammatory infection of the skin and lymphatic network, mainly caused by beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection, commonly occurring in the lower limbs and face. Typically, it is not contagious by itself. In terms of treatment, patients should rest in bed, elevate the affected limb, and locally apply 50% magnesium sulfate solution for wet compresses, while using systemic antibacterial medications, such as intravenous penicillin drips. After local and systemic symptoms disappear, medication should continue for three to five days to prevent recurrence.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How is erysipelas treated?

Erysipelas is a relatively common disease in our clinical practice, characterized by an infection of the reticular lymphatic vessels. The onset of the disease is sudden and develops rapidly, primarily featuring redness, pain, and swelling of the lower limbs. The treatment of erysipelas first involves elevating the affected limb; it is essential to raise the lower limbs above the level of the heart. Subsequently, local wet compresses are applied, commonly using 50% magnesium sulfate. Finally, antibiotic treatment is administered, including intravenous injections of cephalosporins or penicillin-class drugs, along with fluid replenishment and anti-inflammatory treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What is the best medicine for erysipelas?

Erysipelas is an infectious disease that commonly affects the lower legs and face. Once erysipelas is diagnosed, penicillin is the recommended treatment. However, if there is an allergy to penicillin, cephalosporins or quinolones can be used as alternatives. Generally, intravenous infusion is necessary; oral administration alone is not effective. Intravenous medication is required to achieve the best anti-inflammatory treatment results.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Erysipelas is caused by what?

Erysipelas is a common skin disease, generally caused by various reasons. Usually, patients with erysipelas have an underlying disease such as oral ulcers, rhinitis, or athlete's foot. Furthermore, erysipelas is caused by an infection of the skin's lymphatic network by hemolytic streptococcus. It is crucial to treat erysipelas promptly because the bacteria often infiltrate the lymphatic vessels, making the treatment more challenging than typical bacterial infections, and it is very prone to recurrence.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How to eliminate erysipelas swelling in the leg?

After suffering from erysipelas, if symptoms of leg swelling occur, it is recommended to first elevate the affected limb, which can help reduce the swelling. Furthermore, it is advisable to use some anti-swelling topical medications for wet compresses, which can help quickly alleviate the swelling in the leg. Finally, it is recommended to avoid intense exercise usually and to rest during the occurrence of leg swelling symptoms. Appropriate massage can be performed, and it is crucial to treat the primary disease, which is erysipelas, and control the inflammation.

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Written by Cui Lin Jing
Dermatology
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What is erysipelas and is it contagious?

Erysipelas is an inflammation of the skin and lymphatic vessels caused by bacterial infection, commonly occurring in the summer and autumn seasons. It frequently occurs on the face and lower legs, with rhinitis and athlete's foot being the most common triggers. This is due to bacteria infecting the lymphatic vessels through minor wounds. Initially, the lesions are clearly defined, edematous, bright red patches with distinct edges, shiny surface, and increased skin temperature in the affected area. Occasionally, blisters or large blisters may appear, accompanied by spontaneous pain or tenderness and local lymph node enlargement. Erysipelas is not contagious and is quite sensitive to antibiotic treatment. The preferred treatment is penicillin for a duration of two weeks. Since erysipelas is prone to recurrence, it is crucial that the treatment course is sufficient.