Cellulitis and Erysipelas : What Is It ? Treatment and Advice For Patient

Cellulitis and Erysipelas : What Is It ? Treatment and Advice For Patient

Cellulitis is bacterial infection and inflammation of loose connective tissue (dermis subcutaneous tissue)

Erysipelas is a bacterial infection of the dermis and upper subcutaneous tissue; characterized by a well-defined, raised edge reflecting the more superficial (dermal) involvement

Etiology

The most common etiologic agent is group A β hemolytic streptococcus. However, Staphylococcus aureus can also cause cellulites. In young children, Hemophilus influenza type B should be considered as a possible etiology for cellulites especially of the face (facial cellulitis).

Clinical features

The difference between the conditions is often times fluid and more of academical. Except in mild cases, there is constitutional upset with fever and malaise. Classical[ erysipelas starts abruptly and systemic symptoms may be acute and severe, but themresponse to treatment is more rapid. Erythema, heat, swelling and pain or tenderness are constant features in both. In erysipelas, the edge of the lesion is well demarcated and raised, but in cellulitis it is diffuse.

In erysipelas, blisters are common and severe cellulitis may also show bullae or necrosis of epidermis and can rarely progress to fasciitis or myositis. Lymphangitis and lymphadenopathy are frequently associated with cellulitis.

The leg is the commonest site for cellulites. A skin break, usually a wound even if superficial, an ulcer, or an inflammatory lesion including interdigital fungal or bacterial infection, may be identified as a portal of entry.

Erysipelas may occur on the face or extremities and usually accompanied by malaise and fever.

Complications

Without effective treatment, complications are common - fasciitis, myositis, subcutaneous abscesses, and septicemia. Pretibial cellulitis can result in osteomyelitis from contiguous spread. Post streptococcal glomerulonephritis can occur in some cases.

If Lymphangitis is not treated properly, it can lead to lymphoedema.

Management

Treat the fever and pain and elevate the affected part.

Crystalline penicillin or procaine penicillin is the first line therapy and oral Ampicillin or Amoxicillin may be used for mild infection and after the acute phase resolves. The antibiotics should be continued for 10- 14 days.

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Cellulitis and Erysipelas : What Is It ? Treatment and Advice For Patient 2018-12-23T06:56:00-08:00 Rating: 4.5 Diposkan Oleh: David Maharoni