Erysipelas is a febrile illness with dermatological findings, characterized by an abrupt onset of illness with initial fever and chills followed by a painful rash occurring 1-2 days later. Muscle and joint pain may accompany illness. Nausea may be present. Headache and other systemic manifestations of an infectious process may occur. Skin discomfort is noted.
Fever is common.
Group A streptococci are the most common cause. Less common etiologies include group G, C, and B streptococci and, rarely, staphylococci. A defect in skin barrier allows the infection to occur. Infection may occur after trauma, abrasions, skin ulcers, insect bites, eczema, and psoriatic lesions. In general, diagnosis of erysipelas is made clinically.