Question 1

how is erysipelas spread?

Accepted Answer

Contact: Erysipelas is caused by staph and strep organism in the skin.
Transmission is by direct contact.

Question 2

what are the tests for erysipelas?

Accepted Answer

No test to diagnose:: (although a culture can confirm the diagnosis) - but usually the diagnosis is clinical: if it looks like erysipelas, that's what it is.

Question 3

what sort of disorder is erysipelas?

Accepted Answer

Erysipelas: Erysipelas is a superficial bacterial skin infection that characteristically extends into the cutaneous lymphatics. Erysipelas has been traced back to the middle ages, where it was referred to as st. Anthony's fire. Redness of the affected area spreads rapidly with an aching burning sensation. Treatment is with antibiotics.

Question 4

what are the symptoms of erysipelas?

Accepted Answer

Redness, burning: Patients usually start with malaise, chills, and high fever before the onset of the skin lesions. Itching, burning, and tenderness are typical complaints. The skin findings usually start with a small red patch (flat area) that progresses to a fiery-red, firm, tense, and shiny plaque. Sometimes there is a history of a minor injury but often it is hard to identify. Usually caused by group a strep.

Question 5

how is erysipelas usually transmitted?

Accepted Answer

Contagious: It is caused by common bacteriae on the skin. It could transmit from person to person through close-contact or open wound. For the person him/herself, from one infected area to other open areas through scratching, abrasion or cuts.

Question 6

how long for erysipelas to go completely away?

Accepted Answer

Varies: While some may clear completely in 1-2 weeks, in some others the skin changes persist indefinitely due to damage to the lymphatic ducts that make them prone to recurrences.

Question 7

what are the consequences of developing erysipelas?

Accepted Answer

Erysipelas: Erysipelas is a type of skin infection usually caused by group a streptococcus bacteria. Symptoms can include: fever, shaking and chills, pain, sores on the skin, and even blisters.  Treatment is usually with an antibiotic called penicillin.

Question 8

what is the definition or description of: erysipelas?

Accepted Answer

Strep skin infection: Streptococcus usually causes this. Unlike a cellulitis, an erysipelas tends to have a sharp border, be firm, and to extend into the lymphatics making red lines extending from the main lesion.

Question 9

what is the treatment for erysipelas?

Accepted Answer

Antibiotics: Usually penicillin or clindamycin.

Question 10

will erysipelas kill me?

Accepted Answer

Unlikely: You should improve with antibiotic treatment.

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