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Erysipelas Complicated with Acute Exudative Pericarditis
Akvilė Gečaitė1, Aušra Vainalavičiūtė1, Daiva Emilija Rekienė2
1Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, 44307 Kaunas, Lithuania.
Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)
|November 3, 2020
Summary
This case study highlights a rare instance of facial erysipelas (a skin infection) complicated by acute exudative pericarditis, a serious heart inflammation. Prompt antibacterial treatment led to recovery, demonstrating effective management of this unusual dual condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Erysipelas is a common upper dermis infection.
- Typical complications are localized, such as abscesses or necrosis.
- This report details an atypical erysipelas complication.
Observation:
- A 75-year-old presented with facial erysipelas symptoms and signs of acute exudative pericarditis.
- Electrocardiogram showed ST segment elevation, and echocardiography revealed pericardial fluid.
- Elevated C-reactive protein and white blood cell count were noted, with normal troponin I levels.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with facial erysipelas complicated by acute exudative pericarditis.
- Treatment with cephalosporin antibiotics was initiated.
- Clinical improvement was observed, with reduced inflammation markers and resolution of pericardial effusion.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for severe, systemic complications from erysipelas.
- It highlights the importance of considering cardiac involvement in erysipelas patients presenting with specific symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for managing this rare presentation.
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