What is erysipelas and is it contagious?

Written by Cui Lin Jing
Dermatology
Updated on October 31, 2024
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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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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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Can erythromycin ointment be used for erysipelas?

The treatment of erysipelas is divided into topical medications and oral medications. When the condition is not very severe, it can be treated with some antibacterial topical medications, including erythromycin ointment. Erythromycin ointment can alleviate the pain and inflammation of redness and swelling. However, if erysipelas progresses to a more severe stage, using only erythromycin ointment is insufficient. It is necessary to use some oral anti-inflammatory medications for treatment, and the treatment course of oral anti-inflammatory medications is generally about two weeks.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Does erysipelas cause fever?

Erysipelas is a disease that can cause symptoms such as fever because it is a bacterial infectious disease. It may cause various systemic symptoms, including fever, chills, high temperature, and other cold-like symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial to receive timely treatment after contracting erysipelas, using anti-inflammatory medications to eliminate the bacteria, enhancing one's resistance, and getting plenty of rest.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Which is better for erysipelas, cephalosporin or penicillin?

Erysipelas is a relatively common inflammatory skin disease. After contracting erysipelas, penicillin is primarily used for treatment, with cephalosporins as a secondary option. Especially in severe cases, it is crucial to promptly visit the dermatology department of a hospital. Patients may receive intravenous anti-inflammatory medications. Dietarily, it is important to avoid overly stimulating and spicy foods, as well as foods that may cause inflammation. Rest is also important.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can erysipelas be incised and drained?

Erysipelas is different from many infectious diseases in that it should not be incised and drained. Clinically, it is contraindicated to perform incision and drainage on erysipelas because it is an inflammatory non-suppurative infection. As it does not suppurate, incision and drainage would not be effective and might even lead to secondary infections, worsening the condition. Therefore, not only is incision and drainage not recommended for erysipelas, but it is also contraindicated. The treatment of erysipelas should focus on anti-inflammatory methods, possibly involving oral or intravenous medication. (Please take medication under the guidance of a doctor.)