Erysipelas - Anogenital in
See also in: Overview,Cellulitis DDxAlerts and Notices
Important News & Links
Synopsis
Erysipelas is a superficial bacterial infection of the skin most often caused by beta-hemolytic group A streptococci (Streptococcus pyogenes). It frequently extends into the cutaneous lymphatics. Erysipelas can occur on the face but is more commonly seen on the lower extremities of patients with venous insufficiency and stasis dermatitis. Trauma to the skin is an important factor in the development of erysipelas; therefore, a concomitant dermatophyte infection, surgical incision, ulceration, insect bite, or inflammatory skin condition may provide a portal of entry for bacteria. Additional predisposing factors for erysipelas include alcohol use disorder, diabetes, immunocompromised states, and nephrotic syndrome.
Erysipelas appears as a strikingly red, well-demarcated plaque that often exhibits pruritus, tenderness, or burning paresthesias. Commonly involved areas are the face, extremities, and penis. Systemic symptoms including fever, chills, malaise, and arthralgia may accompany the condition. Penile erysipelas responds to treatment with antibiotics but tends to recur, causing a progressive chronic lymphedema with permanent swelling of the penis (elephantiasis). Elephantiasis may also develop in the lower extremities from recurring bouts of erysipelas.
Erysipelas appears as a strikingly red, well-demarcated plaque that often exhibits pruritus, tenderness, or burning paresthesias. Commonly involved areas are the face, extremities, and penis. Systemic symptoms including fever, chills, malaise, and arthralgia may accompany the condition. Penile erysipelas responds to treatment with antibiotics but tends to recur, causing a progressive chronic lymphedema with permanent swelling of the penis (elephantiasis). Elephantiasis may also develop in the lower extremities from recurring bouts of erysipelas.
Codes
ICD10CM:
A46 – Erysipelas
SNOMEDCT:
44653001 – Erysipelas
A46 – Erysipelas
SNOMEDCT:
44653001 – Erysipelas
Look For
Subscription Required
Diagnostic Pearls
Subscription Required
Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
To perform a comparison, select diagnoses from the classic differential
Subscription Required
Best Tests
Subscription Required
Management Pearls
Subscription Required
Therapy
Subscription Required
References
Subscription Required
Last Reviewed:11/12/2020
Last Updated:11/12/2020
Last Updated:11/12/2020
Patient Information for Erysipelas - Anogenital in
Premium Feature
VisualDx Patient Handouts
Available in the Elite package
- Improve treatment compliance
- Reduce after-hours questions
- Increase patient engagement and satisfaction
- Written in clear, easy-to-understand language. No confusing jargon.
- Available in English and Spanish
- Print out or email directly to your patient
Upgrade Today
Erysipelas - Anogenital in
See also in: Overview,Cellulitis DDx