Erysipelas << `ehr` uh SIHP uh luhs >> is a skin infection that chiefly affects infants, young children, and elderly people. It causes a painful thickening and tightening of the skin and spreads rapidly during one or two days. The infected area appears red and shiny, with a slightly raised border. If left untreated, erysipelas can lead to serious internal infections, especially in newborns.
Most cases of erysipelas are caused by bacteria of a type called group A beta-hemolytic streptococci (see Streptococcus). The infection begins when the bacteria enter the skin, typically through an open cut or scratch. The bacteria then invade the surrounding skin. Erysipelas most often affects the face, but it may affect any area of skin. The infection may also cause fever and vomiting. The infection normally clears up a few days after treatment with an antibiotic, usually penicillin or erythromycin. Untreated cases may last several weeks.
Serious complications can occur if erysipelas spreads inside the body. The infection may lead to septicemia (blood poisoning) or to a kidney disease called acute glomerulonephritis (see Nephritis; Septicemia).
