Global research trends and hotspots in erysipelas: a bibliometric analysis from 2000 to 2024

Erysipelas, an acute bacterial infection affecting the dermis and lymphatic system, poses significant clinical challenges due to recurrence, antibiotic resistance, and diagnostic overlap with other skin infections. Despite growing research in this area, a comprehensive bibliometric analysis is lacking, leaving gaps in understanding the publication trends, key research hotspots, and collaborative networks that shape the field.

This study conducted a bibliometric analysis of erysipelas research from 2000 to 2024 using the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED) within the Web of Science Core Collection. English-language articles and reviews were selected, and data were analyzed using VOSviewer, Bibliometrix, and CiteSpace to visualize publication volume, co-authorship networks, geographic distribution, keyword trends, and collaborations.

The results indicate a steady growth in erysipelas research from 2000 to 2024, with annual publication volumes increasing from 9 articles in 2000 to 30 articles in 2022, reflecting a significant rise in interest within the field. The United States leads in contributions with 69 publications and 2,739 citations, institutional analysis highlights Radboud University, Karolinska Institute, and others as key contributors in collaboration and citation impact. Keyword co-occurrence analysis identifies major research hotspots, including familial Mediterranean fever, lymphedema therapy, and the management of complex skin infections, with emerging themes like "liposuction" and "skin and soft tissue infections" gaining attention in recent years.

This study highlights the growing advancements in erysipelas research, including insights into risk factors, diagnostics, and therapies, while emphasizing the need for continued collaboration and innovation to address challenges like antibiotic resistance, recurrence, and accurate differentiation from similar conditions.