erysipelas
Last reviewed 01/2018
Erysipelas is a rapidly spreading Streptococcal infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue characterized by cellulitis and lymphangitis.
Erysipelas is almost always due to Streptococcus pyogenes, but occasionally, other beta-haemolytic streptococci, or rarely, staphylococci, may be responsible.
Streptococcal involvement is unusual in that the infection is localised. Serious epidemics were seen many decades ago, but today the condition is rarely seen.
management of cellulitis or erysipelas - including principles of antibiotic prescribing