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Recurrent erysipelas: risk factors
Felix Pavlotsky1, Shalom Amrani, Henry Trau
1Department of Dermatology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. felixp@post.tau.ac.il
Summary
Recurrent erysipelas, particularly on the lower limb, is linked to overweight, venous insufficiency, lymphedema, and tinea pedis. Managing these risk factors may help prevent repeat infections.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Erysipelas is a common skin infection with known systemic and regional risk factors.
- Factors predisposing to recurrent erysipelas are not well-defined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify risk factors associated with recurrent episodes of erysipelas.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 574 patients hospitalized for erysipelas over three years.
- Comparison of demographic, epidemiological, and medical data between single and recurrent erysipelas episodes.
Main Results:
- Recurrent erysipelas predominantly affected the lower limb.
- Statistically significant risk factors for recurrent erysipelas included overweight, venous insufficiency, lymphedema, tinea pedis, and prior regional surgery or trauma.
Conclusions:
- Patients with lower limb erysipelas should address weight management, venous insufficiency, lymphedema, and tinea pedis.
- Further research is needed on the efficacy of prophylactic antibiotics for recurrent erysipelas.