Best treatment method for erysipelas

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on September 01, 2024
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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.

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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.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Is erysipelas contagious?

Erysipelas is an acute inflammatory infection of the skin and lymphatic network, mainly caused by beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection, commonly occurring in the lower limbs and face. Typically, it is not contagious by itself. In terms of treatment, patients should rest in bed, elevate the affected limb, and locally apply 50% magnesium sulfate solution for wet compresses, while using systemic antibacterial medications, such as intravenous penicillin drips. After local and systemic symptoms disappear, medication should continue for three to five days to prevent recurrence.

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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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What should I do if erysipelas recurs?

The likelihood of erysipelas relapse is very high. If erysipelas recurs, it indicates that there is another bacterial infection and the body's immune system is weak. Therefore, it is recommended to treat with anti-inflammatory drugs, which can be administered either by intravenous infusion or orally. At the same time, it is essential to enhance one's immunity. During the period of erysipelas illness, it is important to get plenty of rest, drink lots of water, and eat nutritious foods.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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The difference between erysipelas and lymphangitis

Erysipelas and lymphangitis are two different diseases with significant differences. First, erysipelas is a skin disease caused by an infection of streptococcus bacteria. On the other hand, lymphangitis is usually caused by various parasites or microbes, including streptococcus or staphylococcus, and not just streptococcus as in the case of erysipelas. Secondly, the symptoms of erysipelas typically include general body symptoms, accompanied by skin redness and pain. In the case of lymphangitis, there is usually a red streak near a wound, and the color disappears when pressed. Therefore, both the causes and symptoms of erysipelas and lymphangitis are different.