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[Erysipelas: microbiological and pathogenic data]
1Département de Bactériologie, Virologie, Hygiène, CHU Dupuytren, 87042 Limoges, France.
Abstract:
Streptococcus pyogenes is considered as the primary cause of erysipelas and the virulence factors of this species are reviewed. The role of Staphylococcus aureus alone or associated with Streptococcus pyogenes remains unclear. Other etiologies are infrequent. Several techniques were used to detect bacteria (direct examination, culture, antigen or genome assay) in local samples (needle aspiration, swab.), in others sites (throat, blood cultures), or specific antibodies. The performance of the various diagnosis methods is evaluated. Despite the combination of 2 or more methods, the etiology remains unknown in almost 20 p. 100 of the cases.
Insights
Streptococcus pyogenes is the main cause of erysipelas, though Staphylococcus aureus
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Streptococcus pyogenes is the primary cause of erysipelas.
- The role of Staphylococcus aureus in erysipelas etiology is unclear.
- Other bacterial causes of erysipelas are rare.
Framework:
- This study reviews Streptococcus pyogenes virulence factors.
- It evaluates various diagnostic techniques for bacterial detection in erysipelas.
- Methods include direct examination, culture, antigen, and genome assays.
Implementation:
- Diagnostic methods were applied to local samples (needle aspiration, swabs), throat, and blood cultures.
- Specific antibodies were also assessed.
- The performance of each diagnostic method was evaluated.
Implications:
- Despite using multiple diagnostic methods, the causative agent remains unidentified in approximately 20% of erysipelas cases.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the etiology of idiopathic erysipelas.
- Improved diagnostic strategies may be required for accurate identification.