Erysipelas

Alternative names:

cellulitis - streptococcal; facial infection; infection - face

Symptoms:

• inflammation of skin
• a skin lesion/rash (patch or plaque usually) that begins suddenly
• a red patch (usually bright red) on the face/cheeks or other areas
• localized facial swelling with sharp, distinct borders
• the face may feel warm or hot to touch
• the rash may spread or enlarge noticeably
• blisters may develop
• fever, may be high
• chills with shaking
• sweating (diaphoresis)
• joint stiffness, muscle aches, may be severe
• a headache
• nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
• a general ill feeling (malaise)

Signs and tests:

Inspection shows inflammation involving the superficial skin tissues.

• A CBC indicates infection, and a WBC is elevated.
• An ESR (sed rate) is elevated.
• A biopsy and culture of affected skin areas may grow streptococcus (or occasionally, staphylococcus).
• Blood cultures may be positive (showing infection in the bloodstream).