Medical Health Encyclopedia

Erysipelas

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Erysipelas on the cheek Erysipelas on the face

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Erysipelas

Definition:

Erysipelas is a type of cellulitis (skin infection) generally caused by group A streptococci.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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Erysipelas may affect both children and adults. The risk factors associated with this infection include local trauma (break in the skin), skin ulceration, and impaired venous or lymphatic drainage.

In the past, the face was most commonly involved yet now accounts for only up to 20% of cases. The lower extremities (legs) are affected in up to 80% of cases.

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