Can erysipelas be incised and drained?

Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
Updated on December 07, 2024
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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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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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Erysipelas anti-infection treatment methods

The most commonly used treatment method for erysipelas infection is penicillin (to be used under the guidance of a doctor). If the patient is not allergic to penicillin, it can be administered intravenously for significant effects. However, it is important to ensure that the treatment duration is sufficient, generally requiring medication for two weeks for better outcomes and to reduce recurrence, given that erysipelas is highly prone to recurrence. If the patient is allergic to penicillin, it is recommended to use alternative antibiotics such as clindamycin (to be used under the guidance of a doctor). Additionally, patients should minimize walking and elevate the affected limb during treatment.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What medicine should be taken for erysipelas?

Erysipelas belongs to capillary lymphangitis, mainly caused by infection with hemolytic streptococcus. It mainly presents as pain in the lower leg and the appearance of red streaks on the lower leg, which can be accompanied by local swelling. If left untreated, it can potentially lead to sepsis. Once erysipelas is diagnosed, if medication is recommended, anti-inflammatory drugs such as penicillin can be taken. It is best to treat with intravenous penicillin for more than 7 days. After the symptoms of erysipelas have completely disappeared, it is advisable to continue using the medication for about 3 days, after which medication can be stopped. During the treatment period, it is necessary to avoid alcohol and refrain from consuming spicy and stimulating foods. (Please use medication under the guidance of a doctor, and do not self-medicate blindly.)

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Written by Liu Jing
Dermatology
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The fastest method to treat erysipelas

The fastest and most effective method for the treatment of erysipelas is systemic medication. After a penicillin skin test, administer intravenous penicillin antibiotics. If the patient is allergic to penicillin, switch to clindamycin injections for intravenous infusion. The treatment course is around 10-14 days, and requires bed rest with elevation of the lower limbs. Examine whether the primary lesions are combined with tinea faciei or tinea pedis, avoid picking the nose and feet, which can cause skin trauma and other inducement factors, and enhance skin cleanliness. Apply magnesium sulfate injection solution externally to the affected area, and treat the symptoms of the primary lesions, such as applying ketoconazole cream to the lesions caused by tinea pedis. (Please follow medical advice when using medication.)

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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What medicine is good for erysipelas when taken orally?

Erysipelas is a bacterial skin disease involving the deeper layers of the skin, caused by Group A streptococcal infection. The bacteria can enter the body through minor wounds in the skin or mucous membranes, and the disease develops when the body's immune resistance is low. Erysipelas has a rapid onset, and its typical symptoms include edematous erythema with clear boundaries, a tense and shiny surface, and rapid expansion to the surrounding areas. There may also be swollen lymph nodes and varying degrees of systemic symptoms, with the condition typically peaking within four to five days. The primary treatment for erysipelas involves anti-inflammatory medications, namely antibiotics. Penicillin is commonly used; if there is an allergy to penicillin, alternatives like erythromycin, azithromycin, roxithromycin, levofloxacin, or ciprofloxacin can be used. Early, adequate, and effective antibiotic treatment can alleviate systemic symptoms, control the spread of inflammation, and prevent recurrence.