Erysipelas: Symptoms and Treatment

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary causative agent of erysipelas?

  • Escherichia coli
  • Streptococcus pyogenes (correct)
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa
  • Staphylococcus aureus

Which of the following is a characteristic feature that distinguishes erysipelas from other skin infections like cellulitis?

  • Sharp, raised borders of the affected area (correct)
  • Diffuse, poorly defined borders of the affected area
  • Presence of pus-filled vesicles
  • Involvement of subcutaneous fat

A patient presents with painful, red, and swollen skin on their lower leg, accompanied by fever and lymphadenopathy. Which condition is MOST likely?

  • Tinea pedis
  • Contact dermatitis
  • Psoriasis
  • Erysipelas (correct)

Which class of antibiotics is typically the FIRST-line treatment for erysipelas?

<p>Penicillins (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential complication of erysipelas if left untreated or improperly managed?

<p>Bacteremia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following signs or symptoms is LEAST likely to be associated with erysipelas?

<p>Hypopigmentation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with a known penicillin allergy is diagnosed with erysipelas. Which alternative antibiotic class would be MOST appropriate?

<p>Macrolides (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the depth of skin layer involvement in erysipelas?

<p>Primarily affects the deeper layers of the dermis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is early treatment of erysipelas important?

<p>To prevent progression to systemic infections and complications (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which patient population is MOST likely to develop erysipelas in the lower extremities?

<p>Older adults (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Erysipelas Definition

Acute infection of the deeper dermis layers.

Cause of Erysipelas

Streptococcus pyogenes.

Erysipelas Symptoms

Painful, red, swollen skin with sharp, raised borders, fever, lymphadenopathy.

Common Location of Erysipelas

Lower extremities (legs).

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Erysipelas Complications

Bacteremia, local skin necrosis.

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Erysipelas Treatment

Penicillins or cephalosporins.

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Study Notes

  • Erysipelas is an acute infection affecting the deeper layers of the dermis.
  • It is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes.

Symptoms of Erysipelas

  • Painful, red, swollen skin (marked erythema) is a key indicator.
  • Sharp, raised borders distinguish it from cellulitis.
  • Edema of the skin is present.
  • Fever and lymphadenopathy occur.
  • Systemic symptoms manifest.
  • Commonly affects the lower extremities.

Complications and Treatment

  • Bacteremia and local skin necrosis are potential complications.
  • Treatment includes penicillins or cephalosporins.

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