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Erysipelas - Anogenital in
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Synopsis

Erysipelas : Fever, Face, Lymphangitis, Painful skin lesions, Scrotum, Skin warm to touch, Blanching patch, WBC elevated, Malar distribution
Erysipelas is a superficial bacterial infection of the skin most often caused by beta-hemolytic group A streptococci (Streptococcus pyogenes). It frequently extends into the cutaneous lymphatics. Erysipelas can occur on the face but is more commonly seen on the lower extremities of patients with venous insufficiency and stasis dermatitis. Trauma to the skin is an important factor in the development of erysipelas; therefore, a concomitant dermatophyte infection, surgical incision, ulceration, insect bite, or inflammatory skin condition may provide a portal of entry for bacteria. Additional predisposing factors for erysipelas include alcohol use disorder, diabetes, immunocompromised states, and nephrotic syndrome.

Erysipelas appears as a strikingly red, well-demarcated plaque that often exhibits pruritus, tenderness, or burning paresthesias. Commonly involved areas are the face, extremities, and penis. Systemic symptoms including fever, chills, malaise, and arthralgia may accompany the condition. Penile erysipelas responds to treatment with antibiotics but tends to recur, causing a progressive chronic lymphedema with permanent swelling of the penis (elephantiasis). Elephantiasis may also develop in the lower extremities from recurring bouts of erysipelas.

Codes

ICD10CM:
A46 – Erysipelas

SNOMEDCT:
44653001 – Erysipelas

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Last Reviewed:11/12/2020
Last Updated:11/12/2020
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Erysipelas : Fever, Face, Lymphangitis, Painful skin lesions, Scrotum, Skin warm to touch, Blanching patch, WBC elevated, Malar distribution

Overview

Erysipelas is a skin infection caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes. This bacteria may enter the body through an injury to the skin, such as a surgical incision, an insect bite, or another skin condition.

The infection causes a rash that is bright red and may burn, itch, sting, and/or swell. It may blister.

Erysipelas most often occurs on the arms and legs, but is sometimes seen on the face. Men can get it on their genitals.

Who’s At Risk

Older adults and those who are immunocompromised are more likely to get erysipelas. This includes people with diabetes or kidney disease and people who abuse alcohol.

Signs & Symptoms

The rash looks like bright red, smooth patches that are tender and warm to the touch. It may burn or tingle.

Self-Care Guidelines

Rest and elevate the affected area, if possible. Cold washcloths on the rash may ease the burning and itching.

When to Seek Medical Care

If the rash spreads to your eyelids or if you develop fever and chills, contact your doctor.

Treatments

Your doctor might prescribe an antibiotic to kill the infection.
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Erysipelas - Anogenital in
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A medical illustration showing key findings of Erysipelas : Fever, Face, Lymphangitis, Painful skin lesions, Scrotum, Skin warm to touch, Blanching patch, WBC elevated, Malar distribution
Clinical image of Erysipelas - imageId=175775. Click to open in gallery. caption: 'A close-up of a deeply erythematous, edematous, and vesiculated patterned plaque on the buttock.'
A close-up of a deeply erythematous, edematous, and vesiculated patterned plaque on the buttock.

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