What medicine should be taken for erysipelas?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 26, 2024
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Erysipelas belongs to capillary lymphangitis, mainly caused by infection with hemolytic streptococcus. It mainly presents as pain in the lower leg and the appearance of red streaks on the lower leg, which can be accompanied by local swelling. If left untreated, it can potentially lead to sepsis. Once erysipelas is diagnosed, if medication is recommended, anti-inflammatory drugs such as penicillin can be taken. It is best to treat with intravenous penicillin for more than 7 days. After the symptoms of erysipelas have completely disappeared, it is advisable to continue using the medication for about 3 days, after which medication can be stopped. During the treatment period, it is necessary to avoid alcohol and refrain from consuming spicy and stimulating foods. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor, and do not self-medicate blindly.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How long will it take for erysipelas to heal?

The typical treatment duration for erysipelas is 10 to 14 days. If it is the first outbreak of erysipelas and the treatment is not timely or thorough, or if the treatment duration is insufficient, it is very susceptible to recurrent erysipelas. Treatment for recurrent erysipelas is more challenging, and it may take about three weeks for some people to recover. Especially in elderly patients with swelling in the lower limbs, it is difficult to completely reduce the swelling, which can lead to long-term conditions like elephantiasis. No matter how long any medication is administered, it cannot be completely eliminated, so it is crucial to start treatment gradually and by courses at the onset of the disease. Penicillin is the first choice of medication. For patients allergic to penicillin, cephalosporins or macrolide drugs are the alternatives.

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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.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Erysipelas is caused by what?

Erysipelas is an acute infectious skin disease caused by Group B beta-hemolytic streptococcus. The bacteria often invade the body through minor skin injuries, causing localized skin redness, swelling, and pain. Some patients also experience systemic symptoms such as fever and headache. Erysipelas commonly occurs on the face and lower legs. Erysipelas on the face is mostly caused by bacterial invasion due to bad habits such as otitis media, dental caries, and nose picking, while erysipelas on the lower legs is often caused by secondary infection from athlete's foot. People with low immune resistance are more prone to erysipelas, so it is crucial to use sensitive antibiotics in adequate amounts early in the treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How is erysipelas treated?

Erysipelas is mainly caused by a bacterial infection of the lymphatic system, resulting in lymphangitis, primarily affecting the superficial lymphatics of the skin's dermis. The common pathogen is Group A hemolytic streptococcus. For erysipelas, proactive anti-infection treatment is necessary, typically opting for penicillin-class antibiotics. For patients allergic to penicillin, other types of antibiotics such as cephalosporins or macrolide antibiotics can be considered. If there is significant local swelling and pain, magnesium sulfate can be used for local wet compresses to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Additionally, traditional Chinese medicine treatments can be considered, such as taking oral medications that clear heat and detoxify.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Best treatment method for erysipelas

Erysipelas is an inflammatory skin condition caused by infection with hemolytic streptococcus. It primarily presents with edematous erythema on the skin, which is clearly demarcated, surface tightness, burning sensation, accompanied by significant pain, and swelling of the local lymph nodes. The best treatment for erysipelas is the preferential use of systemic antibiotics, with penicillin as the first choice. Patients allergic to penicillin can be treated with erythromycin or azithromycin, in combination with topical applications, such as wet compresses with Isatis tinctoria solution or Mupirocin ointment. Additionally, it is important to elevate the affected limb regularly, and abscesses forming in the area may require incision and drainage.