Erysipelas

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Erysipelas on the cheek

Erysipelas on the face

Erysipelas is a type of skin infection (cellulitis).

Erysipelas is usually caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. The condition may affect both children and adults.

Risk factors include:

• A cut in the skin
• Problems with drainage through the veins or lymph system
• Skin sores (ulcers)

In the past, the face was the most common site of infection. Now it accounts for only about 20% of cases. The legs are affected in up to 80% of cases.

Review Date: 10/04/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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