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Erysipeloid: a review
S Veraldi1, V Girgenti, F Dassoni
1Institute of Dermatological Sciences, University of Milan, IRCCS Foundation, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli and Regina Elena, Milan, Italy. stefano.veraldi@unimi.it
Clinical and Experimental Dermatology
|August 12, 2009
Summary
Erysipeloid is a skin infection from Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, often affecting hands. While typically mild, it can rarely cause serious endocarditis, particularly in males with pre-existing heart valve damage.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Erysipeloid is an occupational skin infection caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae.
- It typically presents as localized, erythematous edema on the hands, sometimes with vesicles or bullae.
- Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae can also cause rare but severe endocarditis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical characteristics of erysipeloid infections.
- To outline the diagnostic criteria for erysipeloid.
- To discuss the potential for Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae to cause systemic infection, specifically endocarditis.
Main Methods:
- Clinical case review and analysis of patient history, focusing on occupational exposure.
- Physical examination of skin lesions.
- Review of diagnostic criteria and treatment outcomes.
Main Results:
- Erysipeloid lesions are characterized by well-defined, raised erythematous borders, often on the hands.
- Symptoms can range from asymptomatic to mild pruritus, pain, and fever.
- Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae endocarditis is rare, affects males predominantly, and typically involves pre-existing damaged valves (aortic valve).
Conclusions:
- Diagnosis of localized erysipeloid relies on occupational history, characteristic skin lesions, and response to antibiotics.
- While cutaneous erysipeloid usually resolves quickly with penicillin or cephalosporin, the potential for endocarditis necessitates awareness, especially in at-risk populations.
- Endocarditis due to Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is not associated with prosthetic valves or intravenous drug use.
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