Treatment of erysipelas with folk remedies. The best folk remedies for the treatment of erysipelas of the leg

– spicy infection skin, caused by group A streptococci. The disease is prone to recurrence, and if the primary erysipelas most often appears on the face, then the recurrent disease is usually localized in areas with chronic diseases of the lymphatic or blood vessels - usually on lower limbs.

Erysipelas has been known for a very long time, so there are many recipes for combating the disease, but it is worth remembering that traditional medicine is only a supplement to the main therapy.

Is it possible to cure erysipelas at home?

Erysipelas is a very common streptococcal infection. It ranks 4th after acute respiratory, intestinal infections and viral hepatitis.

Most often, erysipelas is observed in the older age group, about 1/3 of which are women.

The causative agent of the disease is any beta-hemolytic streptococcus of group A. Its source is any carrier of the infection - contaminated instruments, dressings, and a patient with any form of streptococcal infection. It is transmitted by contact and airborne droplets through abrasions, minor injuries, and abrasions.

Streptococci are very common in nature. Every person's skin contains a certain amount of these bacteria. Provided that the immune system is functioning adequately, infection does not occur, but if the immune system is weakened due to chronic diseases, erysipelas develops unhindered. This explains the prevalence of infection among elderly patients.

Erysipelas is extremely rare in children, but poses a great threat. When infected, the disease very quickly spreads to the buttocks, back, lower limbs and leads to very high intoxication of the body. The mortality rate for newborn erysipelas is very high.

Streptococci penetrate through damage into the lymphatic vessels and capillaries, causing the appearance of cellular infiltration of the skin. As a rule, edema is accompanied by increased fragility of blood vessels, which provides numerous edematous hemorrhages. The development of the disease is directly related to disturbances in the functioning of the immune system - against the background of decreased production of T-lymphocytes and increased immunoglobulin E. Under such conditions, an allergy is formed: the occurrence secondary inflammation in the same area indicates the allergic nature of the skin restructuring and its sensitization to streptococcus. As shown latest research, staphylococcal microflora is also involved in the development of the disease, especially when it comes to. This should be taken into account.
Obviously, it is possible to fight streptococcal infections only with the help of a certain kind of antibiotics: erythromycin,. It is also obvious that folk remedies are powerless in the fight against pathogenic microflora, but they are a good means of symptomatic treatment. Decoctions and compresses help relieve swelling and prevent the spread of the disease.

Cases of complete recovery in patients using only folk remedies, alas, are explained by the patient’s initially high immunity. That is, an infection that has penetrated inside provokes the release of the required immunoglobulin. The latter during production in sufficient quantity suppresses the disease. At the same time, antibodies are produced that prevent re-inflammation from developing.

As the immune system weakens, the picture changes. The disease not only cannot be cured without antibiotics, but also progresses to a more severe stage - blisters with serous contents appear, and lymphostasis may develop. In addition, the likelihood of a secondary infection is very high. It is worth considering the consequences of intoxication.

The video below will tell you whether folk remedies help with erysipelas:

Treatment of erysipelas with folk remedies

Traditional recipes are mainly aimed at reducing symptoms - swelling, soreness, fever, inflammation. In addition, the treatment is facilitated by decoctions of herbs that enhance immunity. The latter are also used in the prevention of relapses.

daily shower is a must. However, the affected areas are washed very carefully, only with warm water - not hot, and without using a sponge;
dry the skin with napkins, do not wipe;
must be included in the daily diet dairy products– kefir, yogurt, yogurt, as fresh as possible. Lactobacilli promote recovery normal operation intestines, and the latter is precisely the “base” for the synthesis of the corresponding immunoglobulins;
lubricate inflammation with fatty creams and ointments to minimize contact with moisture;
When sick, the sun turns into medicinal product, that is, it is taken in doses: the affected skin can be irradiated with ultraviolet light for no more than 15 minutes a day.

On the foot

Erysipelas on the legs is most often secondary, but the disease can begin here too. The “gates” for infection are injuries and calluses. Required condition for the development of the disease is a decrease in immunity. The appearance of erysipelas on the legs during relapses is associated with the characteristics of the disease itself: erysipelas “prefers” foci of existing chronic inflammation, areas with disturbances in blood circulation, and lymph stagnation.

It is on the legs that thrombophlebitis most often develops, which is an ideal ground for erysipelas. People whose profession requires them to stand for long periods of time often fall victim to the disease, and their weakened immune system no longer provides adequate protection.

To treat erysipelas on the legs, both creams and lotions are used.

The burdock leaf is kneaded into a paste and mixed with a small amount of sour cream. The mixture is applied to the damaged area and left for at least 2-3 hours.
Crushed plantain leaves are mixed with honey and heated over low heat. The mixture is cooled and used as a compress. The composition relieves inflammation well and reduces pain.
A compress from potato juice. They keep him there all night.
For varicose veins, it is useful to use a cabbage compress. For this cabbage leaf knead, lubricate olive oil and apply to the inflamed area. The compress is secured with a bandage and held for 3 hours.
Twice a day it is recommended to lubricate the skin with a mixture of equal parts sea buckthorn oil and aloe juice.

Ancient healing methods can also help with erysipelas, as the video below will tell you about:

On the hand

The appearance of erysipelas on the hand is usually associated with drug use. Streptococci enter the lymph system through traces of injections, and therefore this disease is most often observed in men 20–35 years old. Erysipelas on the hands is rarely associated with occupational injuries and illnesses.
In women, erysipelas can result from removal of the mammary gland. At the same time, lymph often stagnates in the hand, which creates favorable conditions for the development of the disease.

For treatment, both the above remedies and more specific ones are used.

A hawthorn compress is prepared as follows: grind the juicy fruits into a paste, apply to the skin and secure with a bandage. The composition is retained for several hours.
A compress made from a mixture of vodka and honey in equal parts quite successfully relieves inflammation and swelling. A piece of bandage is soaked in the mixture and held on the hand for at least 1 hour. The procedure is repeated three times a day.
Can be used camphor oil. The oil is heated in a bottle, gauze is moistened in the warm liquid and applied to the affected area for 2 hours. After removing the compress, remove any remaining oil paper napkin, and a burdock leaf is applied to the site of inflammation. The compress is repeated 3 times a day.
30% propolis ointment is prepared as follows: grind 1 kg of propolis, pour 300 ml pure alcohol and boil until the propolis dissolves. Then 200 g of Vaseline is melted in a water bath and 50 g of propolis alcohol solution is added to the mass. The composition is mixed, cooled, filtered through cheesecloth and stored in glass containers. The ointment is applied twice a day to the area of inflammation.
Chalk, or rather its mixture with crushed sage leaves in equal parts, acts as a kind of absorbent that reduces inflammation. This paste is applied to the inflammation 4 times a day and bandaged.

On the face

Primary erysipelas is most often observed on the face. The provoking factor in this case is various chronic blockages - conjunctivitis, as well as. Localization is associated with the disease:

For conjunctivitis the disease develops around the eye sockets.
When a streptococcal infection occurs in the sinuses, erysipelas affects the cheeks and nose - inflammation in the form of a “butterfly”.
For otitis swelling and redness appear around the ears, on the neck, and scalp.

Erysipelas on the face are always accompanied by severe swelling and pain. In this case, you cannot use effective decongestant ointments, as this increases the risk of inflammation. Relatively weak folk remedies turn out to be more useful.

Flowers coltsfoot and chamomile are crushed, mixed in equal proportions, honey is added. The mixture is applied to the affected areas.
Elecampane root is ground, mixed with petroleum jelly in a ratio of 1:4 and applied to the face twice a day.
Juice from chamomile and yarrow leaves is mixed with butter in a ratio of 1:4. The ointment is applied to the affected area three times a day.
For erythematous erysipelas, the inflamed areas are lubricated with pork fat every 3 hours.
For the bullous form - the appearance of blisters, use a mixture of equal parts of crushed plantain, burdock and Kalanchoe. Fresh leaves are ground into a paste and placed on the inflamed area and secured with a piece of gauze. Keep as a mask for at least 1 hour.
Medications help with erysipelas herbal teas, reducing inflammation and removing toxins.
Dry crushed leaves are mixed in equal parts: yarrow, calamus, burnet, eucalyptus. Part of the collection is poured with 10 parts of boiling water and left for 3 hours. The infusion is filtered and taken 4 times a day, 50 drops.
For washing, as well as for the purpose of preventing the spread, decoctions of string, chamomile and coltsfoot are used. This herb has pronounced antibactericidal properties and prevents the addition of a secondary infection.

Erysipelas is a serious infectious disease that requires treatment with antibiotics. Folk remedies alleviate and prevent the spread of the disease, but only if they are correctly combined with drug therapy.

A lot of good recipes from the face it is given in this video:

What is erysipelas (erysipelas)

An acute, often recurrent infectious disease, which is manifested by fever, symptoms of intoxication and characteristic skin lesions with the formation of a sharply limited focus of inflammation. This is a widespread streptococcal infection with sporadic incidence, increasing in the summer and autumn.

By prevalence in the modern structure infectious pathology erysipelas ranks 4th - after acute respiratory and intestinal infections, viral hepatitis, is especially often registered in older age groups. Approximately 1/3 are patients with recurrent erysipelas, mostly women.

Erysipelas usually appears on the legs and arms, less often on the face, and even less often on the torso, perineum and genitals. All these inflammations are clearly visible to others and cause the patient a feeling of acute psychological discomfort.

Causes of erysipelas

The cause of erysipelas can be any serovar of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, the same serotypes can cause others streptococcal diseases(sore throat, pneumonia, sepsis, meningitis, etc.).

In addition, streptococcus is widespread in nature and is quite resistant to environmental conditions. The source of infection is a patient with any form of streptococcal infection or a streptococcal carrier. There is a special selective susceptibility or predisposition to erysipelas.

Some people get sick many times, since immunity after erysipelas is unstable. Streptococci enter the body through minor damage to the skin and mucous membranes. Exogenous infection is possible (contaminated instruments, dressings), as well as from chronic streptococcal foci of infection (for example, in patients with chronic tonsillitis).

In this case, the state of reactivity of the body is of decisive importance, causing wide fluctuations in susceptibility to infectious pathogens, in particular to streptococci.

Streptococci and their toxins, when absorbed, cause the development of inflammatory process, which is manifested by edema, erythema, cellular infiltration of the skin and subcutaneous tissue.

In this case, fragility of the blood vessels is often observed, manifested in pinpoint hemorrhages. In the occurrence of relapses of erysipelas in the same place, allergic restructuring and sensitization of the skin to hemolytic streptococcus are important.

A decrease in the general resistance of the body contributes to the addition of accompanying microbial flora, the progression of the process and the complication of erysipelas. However, in last years found out that important role In the pathogenesis of erysipelas in those who have suffered primary and especially repeated and recurrent erysipelas, staphylococcal flora is present, which must be taken into account when prescribing treatment.

Symptoms of erysipelas

The incubation period is from 3 to 5 days. The onset of the disease is acute, sudden. On the first day, the symptoms of erysipelas and general intoxication are more pronounced:

Strong headache,
chills,
general weakness,
nausea,
vomit,
temperature rise to 39.

With the erythematous form of erysipelas, 6-12 hours after the onset of the disease, a burning sensation, bursting pain appears, and redness (erythema) and swelling at the site of inflammation appear on the skin.

The area affected by erysipelas is clearly separated from the healthy area by a raised, sharply painful ridge. The skin in the area of the outbreak is hot to the touch and tense. If there are pinpoint hemorrhages, then they speak of erythematous - hemorrhagic form faces. With bullous erysipelas, against the background of erythema, at various times after its appearance, bullous elements are formed - blisters containing a light and transparent liquid.

Later they fall off, forming dense brown crusts that are rejected after 2-3 weeks. Erosion and trophic ulcers may form in place of the blisters. All forms of erysipelas are accompanied by lesions lymphatic system- lymphadenitis, lymphangitis.

Primary erysipelas is often localized on the face, recurrent - on the lower extremities. There are early relapses (up to 6 months) and late relapses (over 6 months). Their development is facilitated by concomitant diseases.

Of greatest importance are chronic inflammatory foci, diseases of the lymphatic and blood vessels of the lower extremities (phlebitis, thrombophlebitis, varicose veins veins); diseases with a pronounced allergic component ( bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis), skin diseases (mycoses, peripheral ulcers). Relapses also occur as a result of unfavorable professional factors.

The duration of the disease, local manifestations of erythematous erysipelas disappear by 5-8 days of illness, in other forms they can last more than 10-14 days. Residual symptoms erysipelas - pigmentation, peeling, pasty skin, the presence of dry dense crusts in place of bullous elements. Lymphostasis may develop, leading to elephantiasis of the extremities.

Descriptions of erysipelas symptoms

Which doctors should I contact for erysipelas?

Complications of erysipelas

The most common complications of erysipelas include ulcers, necrosis, abscesses, phlegmon, as well as lymph circulation disorders leading to lymphostasis, in in rare cases- pneumonia and sepsis.

Due to lymphovenous insufficiency, which progresses with each new relapse of the disease (especially in patients with frequently recurrent erysipelas), in 10-15% of cases the consequences of erysipelas develop in the form of lymphostasis (lymphedema) and elephantiasis (fibredema).

With a long course of elephantiasis, hyperkeratosis, skin pigmentation, papillomas, ulcers, eczema, and lymphorrhea develop. Erysipelas is especially dangerous in newborns and children in the first year of life.

Erysipelas in children

In newborns, erysipelas is most often localized in the navel area. The process spreads over 1-2 days to the lower limbs, buttocks, back and entire torso. In newborns, erysipelas is often widespread, or wandering.

Intoxication, fever, and convulsions may develop quickly. Sepsis often occurs. Mortality is extremely high. Erysipelas is just as dangerous for children in their first year of life.

The prognosis of the disease is conditionally favorable, with adequate timely treatment faces are highly likely complete cure and restoration of working capacity. In some cases, it is possible to develop recurrent forms of the disease, which are much less responsive to treatment.

Treatment of erysipelas

Treatment of erysipelas depends on its form, frequency, degree of intoxication, and the presence of complications.

Drug treatment

Etiotropic therapy: penicillin antibiotics in average daily dosages (penicillin, tetracycline, erythromycin or oleandomycin, oletethrin, etc.). Sulfonamide drugs and combined chemotherapy drugs (Bactrim, Septin, Biseptol) are less effective. The course of treatment for erysipelas is usually 8-10 days.

ceporin;
oxacillin;
ampicillin;
methicillin.

It is advisable to carry out two courses of antibiotic therapy with a change in drugs (intervals between courses are 7-10 days). For frequently recurrent erysipelas, corticosteroids are used daily dosage 30 mg.

For persistent infiltration, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are indicated:

chlotazol;
butadione;
reopirin, etc.

Suitable purpose:

ascorbic acid;
routine;
B vitamins.

Autohemotherapy gives good results.

Physiotherapy

In the acute period of the disease, the appointment of ultraviolet irradiation, UHF followed by the use of ozokerite (paraffin) or naphthalan is indicated for the inflammation.

Surgery

Local treatment of uncomplicated erysipelas is carried out only in its bullous form: the bulla is incised at one of the edges and bandages with a solution of rivanol and furatsilin are applied to the site of inflammation.

Subsequently, dressings with ectericin, Shostakovsky balm, as well as manganese-vaseline dressings are prescribed. Local treatment alternates with physiotherapeutic procedures.

Folk remedies for treating erysipelas at home

Some traditional medicines are effective in the treatment of erysipelas, as they have an antiseptic effect and relieve inflammation:

Prevention of erysipelas

To prevent the development of erysipelas, it is advisable to change your lifestyle: avoid unfavorable working conditions associated with frequent hypothermia, sudden changes in air temperature, dampness, and drafts; microtraumas of the skin and other occupational hazards; avoid stress.

timely and complete antibiotic therapy primary disease and relapses;

treatment of severe residual effects(erosions, persistent swelling in the local area), consequences of erysipelas (persistent lymphostasis, elephantiasis);

treatment of long-term and persistent chronic skin diseases (mycoses, eczema, dermatoses, etc.), leading to disruption of its trophism and serving as an entry point for infection;

treatment of foci of chronic streptococcal infection ( chronic tonsillitis, sinusitis, otitis media, etc.);

treatment of disorders of lymph and blood circulation in the skin resulting from primary and secondary lymphostasis, chronic diseases of peripheral vessels;

treatment of obesity, diabetes mellitus (frequent decompensation of which is observed with erysipelas).

Questions and answers on the topic "Erysipelas"

Question:I am 47 years old. This is the fourth time I have had erythematous erysipelas of my right leg (I got sick for the first time when I was 23 years old). Previously, I managed to quickly cope with the disease, but now the disease simply dragged on, despite the fact that I followed all the doctor’s instructions. According to a blood test at the beginning of the disease, the ESR exceeded 43. She began treatment by injecting a course of antibiotics, gentomycin (in previous cases, she was treated only with it!), compresses with dimexide 1:10, methyluracil tablets 500 mg/3r per day, lycopid tablets 2 mg/10 days. As soon as the antibiotic finished injecting, the redness began to come back. According to the CBC: leukocytes are increased to 12, and ESR is normal -7. I started going through physical therapy. procedure - darsenval on the lower leg area No. 10. The antibiotic azithromycin 500 mg was prescribed for 3 days, and levomekol ointment was applied externally to the lower leg 2 times a day. I drank it, took a blood test, the leukocytes returned to normal, and the ESR increased to 35; slight swelling and hyperemia remained on the lower leg. They again prescribed an antibiotic, one injection of Bicillin-5, I continue to treat the lower leg with Levomekol ointment, but the redness still does not subside, and one might say it is increasing. Please advise what should I do, what went wrong in my treatment? Slight swelling and hyperemia persists despite the fact that she completed a course of three antibiotics. I've been on sick leave for 21 days already! What do you recommend?

Answer: In addition to drug treatment, physiotherapy is recommended: laser treatment, ultra-high-frequency therapy (2-3 procedures) and ultraviolet irradiation (1-2 procedures), radon baths and taking ozokerite. With frequent relapses, you must periodically undergo a course of physiotherapeutic procedures and a medical examination 2, 3 and 6 months after discharge from the hospital.

Question:The left foot and ankle were swollen. Terrible pain. It is impossible to move. After you get out of bed, there is pain. There are three ulcers just above the ankle. There is swelling around them. Perhaps this is what causes the swelling. What antibiotic should you take to reduce swelling? The rest will be completed by Zodak and Gioxyzon. Thank you in advance!

Answer: The clinical picture you described resembles erysipelas. Treatment should be comprehensive and carried out under the supervision of a surgeon, since the inflammatory process can spread quickly. Antibacterial treatment is carried out with penicillins or macrolides. Don't self-medicate!

Question:Erysipelas appeared on inside left forearm. I took ampiox 2 drops for 7 days. 4 rubles per day, Tylenol 1 tablet. 2 r. per day and paracetamol 1 t. 2 r. in a day. The symptoms almost went away, but on the 7th day the shoulder higher up the arm began to hurt - swelling, redness, pain in the arm. What to do?

Answer: Contact your doctor immediately; the infection may recur. Erysipelas is a soft tissue infection that tends to spread quickly. You should not immediately stop antibiotic therapy after symptoms disappear.

Question:The legs are swollen, red spots, very painful. Is it possible to give birth while sick?

Answer: According to the clinical picture you describe, this is erysipelas. Consultation with an infectious disease specialist is necessary. Erysipelas is not a contraindication for childbirth.

Question:My husband injected his leg. The wound became infected. Pus appeared, the wound somehow closed, and the infection remained inside. Doctors diagnose erysipelas, but I think they are wrong. The leg became all red and swollen, and the skin near the puncture began to peel off, as if from a burn. Do you think we should contact another specialist? My husband is 52 years old. The illness lasted two weeks, at first they self-medicated, since he worked and came late. I didn't go to the hospital. I applied ichthyol, smeared it with brilliant green, and treated it with peroxide. I took antibiotics Sumamecin for two days, as advised by the pharmacy. Hives started. Yesterday I was admitted to the hospital, but so far no surgical intervention has been used. In the evening they put me on an IV and gave me a sleeping pill and that was it.

Answer: At this time, surgical treatment should only be performed if an abscess has formed. If it is not there, and the pus has “saturated” the tissues of the leg, it is necessary conservative treatment: local sanitation of the wound and antibiotic therapy.

Question:Good day! My grandmother is 73 years old. Since the end of September 2010 she has had an erysipelas on her lower leg. They were treated with: streptocidal ointment, ointment 36 and 6, Vishnevsky ointment, furatsilin ointment, fucorcin smeared on the ulcers. I went to the hospital on January 17, 2011. I was in bed for 2 weeks, treated with IVs, and bandaged with boric liquid. After the hospital, she was treated with levomekol, and recently started treatment with Argosulfan. No improvement. Tell me what to do next!

Answer: Considering that erysipelas is most often caused by streptococcal infection, it is necessary to treat with those antibacterial drugs to which the infectious agent is sensitive in this particular case. This can be done after a bacteriological examination, identification of the pathogen and determination of its sensitivity to antibiotics of different groups.

Question:Hello. I'm 24 years old. My smallest stone is 4 mm, and the largest is 8 mm, I have a lot of them. When I stir the food, I have an attack, the sight of the stones is empty. Can I get rid of them without surgery? I did not take any treatment, I just lay on the CERAGEM-M3500 bed for 2 months. But the ultrasound showed that there was no result. What can you recommend? Is it possible to get rid of such stones without surgery? Thank you in advance for your answer.

Answer: Unfortunately, in the situation you describe, the only effective method of treatment is surgical removal gallbladder. Even constant compliance strict diet cannot guarantee the absence of attacks of cholecystitis.

Question:I have an erysipelas on my leg. Do I need to take Troxevasin capsules along with other drugs at the same time? How to take them and for how long?

Answer: In this situation, the treatment regimen is prescribed exclusively by the attending physician. Only he, based on inspection and examination data, can change the composition of this scheme and supplement it. Contraindications to the use of Troxevasin for erysipelas No. But the duration of the course and dosage are determined by the attending physician.

Question:I am 48 years old. I have erysipelas of the lower leg of my left leg. The diagnosis was made in regional hospital. Treatment was prescribed - bicillin-5 once a month. 4 months have passed and there is no improvement at all. The red area of inflammation increases. Twitching pains appeared. What additional drug treatment would you recommend? Thank you.

Answer: Antibacterial treatment of this disease can be supplemented with antiallergic drugs (from the group of hisathymic blockers) and drugs that strengthen the vascular wall (angioprotectors). To change your treatment regimen, you need a personal consultation with your attending infectious disease specialist.

Erysipelas of the leg, the symptoms and treatment of which depend on the state of the immune system, is a bacterial infectious disease. Its causative agent is group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. More often, the disease affects women over 50 years of age. Factors predisposing to inflammation of the skin on the legs include cracks and burns, and low immunity.

The causes of the development of the disease are the penetration of infection into the body through scratching, scratching and other damage to the skin. The main causes of inflammation of the skin are advanced caries and chronic tonsillitis. TO additional factors Infectious diseases that contribute to the development of erysipelas of the leg include:

constant hypothermia of the lower extremities;
strong tan;
sudden change in temperature;
stress.

The causes of erysipelas may be associated with the following pathologies:

obesity.
diabetes.
trophic ulcer.
alcoholism.
thrombophlebitis.
varicose veins

The disease in question is contagious, since the pathogen is easily transmitted from an infected patient to healthy person. Therefore, doctors recommend avoiding contact with infected patients. If one of the family members is infected, then it is necessary to comply additional measures security.

The incubation period lasts 10 days. After the specified period, the symptoms of erysipelas make themselves felt. The first signs of the disease appear in the form of general malaise (migraine, chills, weakness, nausea, vomiting). After 24 hours, local symptoms are added to the symptoms described above. Pain, burning, redness and swelling appear in the problem area of the skin. Subsequent symptoms appear depending on the form of the disease.

Infectious disease specialists identify several forms of erysipelas of the legs:

Erythermatous - the affected area of the skin turns red, erythema forms, rising above the skin. Erythema has clear boundaries and irregular shape. Often the above picture is complemented by peeling of the skin.
Erythematous-bullous - peels off from the problem area 2-3 days after infection upper layer. In this case, bubbles with liquid form. They tend to burst. Then a brown crust forms. What is underneath depends on the effectiveness of the therapy. Upon provision of timely medical care after the crust falls off, a pink and smooth skin. In other cases, painful erosions occur, which easily transform into trophic ulcers.
Erythematous-hemorrhagic - hemorrhage is observed in the affected areas.
Bullous-hemorrhagic - inflammation of the lower leg is accompanied by the appearance of blisters filled with fluid and blood.

Taking into account the degree of the process, dermatologists distinguish between mild, moderate and severe inflammation of the leg. According to the frequency of development of the pathology, primary, recurrent and recurrent erysipelas are distinguished. An infectious disease specialist or therapist can diagnose the disease in question. The presence of an inflammatory process is indicated by:

increased titers of antistreptolysin-O or other antistreptococcal antibody;
impaired hemostasis and fibrinolysis;
inflammatory changes in general analysis blood.

Diagnostic criteria for the disease:

acute course of the disease with severe symptoms;
localization local inflammation on the legs and face;
redness of the skin;
enlarged lymph nodes in the area of inflammation;
absence of pain at the site of the inflammatory process at rest.

Treatment of erysipelas at home includes taking antibiotics. Most often, patients are prescribed penicillin and cephalosporin drugs. The pathogen is most sensitive to these medications. Antibiotics are taken for 7-10 days. It is recommended to take the tablets strictly on time. Clinical assessment of the effectiveness of therapy is carried out simultaneously with a microbiological assessment of the condition of the skin. This comprehensive approach to the fight against erysipelas contributes to the patient’s rapid and complete recovery.

You can treat erysipelas with medication by following your doctor’s recommendations. At the same time, the patient is prescribed desensitizing and immunomodulatory therapy. During their life, microbes produce toxins that provoke allergies. To prevent worsening of the pathology, take Diphenhydramine or new generation medications. Infectious disease specialists include Timalin, Dekaris, Timalin as effective immunomodulatory drugs. If necessary, use specific immune preparations - antistreptococcal serum, staphylococcal toxoid.

Local treatment is prescribed to have a direct effect on the pathological area. This therapy includes the use of cooling procedures. Using chlorethyl cooling, you can relieve pain within 3-4 days. Antiseptic dressings are also used during the treatment period. They are used to kill the pathogen and prevent the activation of secondary flora, which can provoke serious consequences underlying disease.

Additionally, for erysipelas, the following medications are taken:

Sulfonamides (Streptotsid, Biseptol) - prevent the formation of bacteria in cells.
Nitrofurans (Furadonin) - their action is aimed at slowing down the growth and reproduction of bacteria.
Glucocorticoids (Prednisolone) - have a strong antiallergic effect, but at the same time inhibit immune system. Such medications are taken as prescribed by the attending physician.
Biostimulants (Pentoxyl) - their action is aimed at stimulating the formation of cells of the immune system, accelerating the restoration of the skin in the problem area.
Multivitamins ( Ascorbic acid, Ascorutin) - strengthen the walls of the knee joint, increasing the activity of the immune system.
Thymus medications (Tactivin) - the medication is administered intramuscularly. It improves immune function by increasing the number of T-lymphocytes.
Proteolytic enzymes (Trypsin) are presented in the form of subcutaneous injections, the action of which is aimed at improving tissue nutrition and resorption of infiltrate.

Syntomycin, Vishnevskaya and ichthyol ointments should not be used to treat affected skin. Such drugs increase the inflammatory process, causing an abscess. Problem areas of the leg can be treated with the following means:

Application with a 50% solution of Dimexide - a gauze napkin is moistened in the solution, applied to problem skin. The procedure is repeated 2 times a day. With the help of Dimexide, pain and inflammation are relieved, blood circulation improves. The medication has an antimicrobial effect, increasing the effect of antibiotic therapy.
Enteroseptol powder - sprinkle powder on clean, dry skin 2 times a day. The drug prevents the attachment of other microbes.
Bandage with Microcide solution - compress paper is applied to the bandage. The microcide has an antimicrobial effect, destroying microbes in the thickness of the skin.
Oxycyclosol aerosol - a similar product is used to treat problematic skin. The product is sprayed at a distance of 20 cm from the surface of the area. The procedure is repeated 2 times a day.

Physiotherapy for erysipelas of the leg is aimed at normalizing impaired metabolism in tissues. With the help of this treatment method, the frequency of relapse is reduced, since they completely cure the patient. More often, doctors use ultraviolet irradiation of the affected areas of the skin. This therapy causes the death of the pathogen, enhancing the therapeutic effect of the first stage of treatment. A similar technique is used in the presence of pathologically altered tissues. With the migratory form of erysipelas, diseased and healthy skin are exposed to irradiation.

If a relapse occurs, other physiotherapeutic treatment methods are used (ozokerite therapy, paraffin therapy). They are also prescribed for chronic skin processes. They are aimed at improving microcirculation, which helps attract immune cells to the site of the process. In case of exacerbation of the disease, electro- or phonophoresis of Hydrocortisone is used.

If erysipelas is accompanied purulent lesion legs, carried out surgery. The operation consists of surgical opening and creating an outflow of pus from the source of inflammation. Such therapy prevents the development of purulent intoxication.

Folk remedies against erysipelas are taken after consultation with your doctor. Healers advise treating erysipelas with spells and a red rag moistened with cobwebs and mold. Effective folk remedies for strengthening the immune system are black radish, currants, cabbage, buckwheat, oats, peas, and beets.

The reasons for the body's low defenses are associated with nervous and mental stress. To combat such factors, ordinary hops, prickly hawthorn, lungwort, lemon balm, and common oregano are used.

Raspberry and blackberry leaves have beneficial properties. They contain amino acids, in the absence of which disturbances in the vital functions of the patient’s body are observed. When treating erysipelas on the legs at home, it is recommended:

Lightly bandage the affected area, allowing only a light bandage, which must be changed 2-3 times a day. Pre-shown antiseptic treatment skin.
Avoid unnecessary softening of the skin with ointment. Otherwise, additional infection of the wound will begin to develop.
After opening the bubbles, erosions are treated with hydrogen peroxide. The skin is dried with a powder consisting of boric acid, xeroform, and streptocide. The wound is covered from above with two layers of gauze.

2 weeks after the onset of the disease, the redness subsides, but swelling and pigments remain. In the absence of treatment there is high risk relapse. If passive treatment is carried out, inflammation provokes general and local complications. This pathology dangerous for patients with diabetes, allergies, heart failure and HIV infection. There is a high likelihood of developing sepsis, pneumonia and meningitis.

Toxins of the pathogen provoke myocarditis, rheumatism and glomerolonephritis. Infectious disease specialists include abscesses and phlegmon, and trophic ulcers as local complications of erysipelas of the lower extremities. At the same time, the volume of leg tissue increases sharply (due to the accumulation of fluid and thickening of the skin). Elephantiasis against the background of erysipelas is accompanied by the appearance of papillomas and lymphorrhea.

Prognosis and prevention

Specific prevention of erysipelas on the lower extremities has not yet been developed. To prevent the disease in question, it is recommended to follow local and general measures. The first group includes the following recommendations:

foot care - regular washing, avoiding abrasions and calluses, cuts, overheating and hypothermia;
prevention of varicose veins and timely consultation with a doctor.

TO general measures Infectious disease experts include precautions for the development of erysipelas:

limited contact with infected people;
after contact, antiseptic skin treatment is carried out;
regularly strengthening the immune system by following a daily regimen;
avoiding stress;
timely elimination of foci of chronic streptococcal infection;
proper nutrition - the menu includes meat broths and exclude the consumption of stale food;
year-round preventive injections of Bicillin.

The prognosis of the pathology depends on the severity of its course and the state of immunity. The recurrent form develops against the background of the addition of staphylococcus to GABHS. Acquired lymphostasis reduces the patient's ability to work.

In general, the prognosis for the life of the patient is favorable for erysipelas (in the absence of complications).

An anthroponotic infectious disease, is one of the forms of damage by hemolytic streptococci of group A. It is characterized by serous or serous-hemorrhagic focal inflammation skin and/or mucous membranes with a predominance of exudation, the development of lymphadenitis and lymphangitis, fever, and toxic manifestations. It can occur in acute and chronic forms.

The name of the disease comes from the Greek words erytros (red) and pella (skin), which characterizes the local pathological inflammatory focus and the presence of erythematous skin lesions. In the 17th century, the outstanding English doctor T. Sydenham noted the similarity of erysipelas with an acute rash and considered it as general disease the whole body. In the 50s of the 19th century, M.I. Pirogov observed an epidemic of erysipelas among the wounded in hospitals and identified phlegmonous and gangrenous forms of the disease. In 1868, the famous German surgeon T. Billroth gave the name “streptococcus” to the pathogen. In 1881, R. Koch isolated these pathogens from tissue during erysipelas, and the Scottish bacteriologist O. Ogsdon provided evidence that streptococci cause various diseases. In 1882, the German researcher F. Feleisen discovered streptococci in the lymph nodes and subcutaneous fatty tissue of patients with erysipelas, and reproduced it experimentally by inoculating a culture of isolated microbes into animals and people. In 1896 in Germany it was found that streptococci, which cause bacterial pharyngitis, phlegmon, sepsis and erysipelas in patients, are microorganisms of the same species and have insignificant biological differences.

The widespread use of aseptics and antiseptics in the 20-30s of the 20th century practically eliminated the so-called surgical erysipelas - a wound infection that was often encountered in the practice of surgeons and obstetricians in the 19th century. Epidemics of erysipelas, which spread as a result of mass hospital infections, were stopped. However, before implementation in medical practice After antibacterial therapy, erysipelas was very difficult to resolve in infants and the elderly, as well as in cases where erysipelas was localized on the mucous membranes (especially when the laryngeal part of the throat was affected). Antibiotic therapy has proven to be very effective in treating acute manifestations of erysipelas, but it was subsequently found that the use of antibiotics does not significantly reduce the frequency of recurrences of erysipelas.

Now the attention of researchers is focused on studying the characteristics of the pathogenesis, clinical immunology and immunogenetics of erysipelas, the development of pathogenetically based modern methods of immunotherapy and immunoprophylaxis of the disease, and informative methods for predicting relapses of the disease. Today, erysipelas is a ubiquitously common, relatively less contagious infectious-allergic disease, however, due to the presence of relapses in a significant number of patients, as well as frequent occurrence severe complications and residual signs of the disease, this pathology acquires great socio-medical significance.

According to selective data, today the incidence averages 15-20 people per 10 thousand population. In this case, as a rule, no more than 10-12% of the total number of patients are hospitalized. This is believed to be common infectious disease a person with a contact transmission mechanism.

The causative agent of erysipelas is group A hemolytic streptococci, that is, non-motile gram-positive cocci of the genus Streptococcus, family Streptococcaceae. They are quite resistant to environment, can tolerate drying well and survive for several months in dry sputum and manure. These microorganisms can withstand heating up to 60 °C for about half an hour, and under the influence of conventional disinfectants they die within 15 minutes. Streptococci have many antigens; they are capable of producing such biologically active extracellular substances as streptolysin, streptokinase, hyaluronidase, etc. An important component of group A streptococci - protein M (the main virulence factor) - is a type-specific antigen. It inhibits phagocytic reactions, directly negatively affects phagocytes, and also predetermines polyclonal activation of lymphocytes and the formation of antibodies with a low degree of avidity. Such properties of protein M play a leading role in the violation of tolerance to tissue isoantigens and the development autoimmune pathology. The streptococcal cell wall capsule is composed of hyaluronic acid and is another virulence factor, protecting these bacteria from the antimicrobial action of phagocytes and facilitating adhesion to the epithelium. TO important factors pathogenicity belongs to C-peptidase, which suppresses the activity of phagocytic reactions of the macroorganism. Group A streptococci produce erythrogenic toxins that exhibit hemolytic activity with the destruction of red blood cells and cardiomyocytes. Under certain conditions (the effect of antibiotics, antibodies, the influence of lysozyme), bacterial forms of streptococcus are capable of transforming into L-forms, resistant to antibiotics and can remain in the human body for a long time, periodically reverting to the initial bacterial forms.

For uncomplicated erysipelas, the leading etiological factor The disease is streptococcus; in weakened patients, other pathogens, staphylococci, can also be activated. They can infiltrate the content of bullous elements in patients with bullous erysipelas, and in the presence of erosions, hematomas, and skin necrosis, cause purulent-necrotic complications.

The source of infection are patients with various streptococcal infections (pharyngitis, scarlet fever, streptoderma, otitis, erysipelas, etc.), as well as healthy carriers pathogenic streptococci. As a rule, patients with erysipelas are less contagious than patients with other streptococcal infections. Infection occurs through contact through the skin and mucous membranes in case of injury, which is especially evident in primary erysipelas ( exogenous route). Skin damage can be in the form of minor cracks, scratches, punctures, microtraumas and therefore remain undetected. With erysipelas, streptococci often penetrate through microcracks in the nostrils or areas of damage to the external ear canal, if the lower extremities are affected - through cracks in the interdigital spaces, on the heels or areas of damaged skin in lower third shins. Also, insect bites can sometimes serve as entry points for erysipelas, especially when scratching them. Factors of transmission of erysipelas can be clothes, shoes, dressings, unsterile medical instruments, etc. contaminated with streptococci. In almost a third of patients, contact infection with discharge from the nasal throat is recorded (in the presence of streptococcal lesions of the nasal, oral cavity or carriage) with subsequent introduction of pathogens to damaged skin. In some cases, the pathogen enters the skin and subcutaneous fatty tissue by lymphogenous and hematogenously from any source of streptococcal infection (endogenous route).

Erysipelas is observed everywhere in the form of sporadic cases of the disease. The main group of patients with erysipelas are people aged 50 years and older (in total they make up more than half of all patients who are hospitalized with this nosological form). Among patients with primary erysipelas, people who work physically predominate. The highest incidence was registered among mechanics, loaders, vehicle drivers, masons, carpenters, cleaners, housewives, kitchen workers, electricians and representatives of other professions associated with frequent injury and contamination of the skin, as well as sudden changes in temperature and humidity. Women get erysipelas more often than men (60-65% and 35-40%, respectively). A pronounced summer-autumn seasonality has been established with a maximum incidence from July to October (during this time, up to 70% of cases of the total number of erysipelas per year are recorded).

After suffering an acute illness, immunity is not formed. The chronic form develops in the elderly, patients with immunodeficiency, diabetes mellitus, chronic alcoholism, fungal infections of the skin, damage to the venous apparatus of the extremities and impaired lymphatic drainage (for example, after a mastectomy, surgical interventions on the pelvic organs, vascular bypass surgery).

It has been established that the tendency to erysipelas is genetic in nature and is one of the variants of a hereditarily determined reaction to streptococcus. There is an opinion that a wide range of antigens can interact with antigens, as well as variable regions of the B chain (HC receptors) of lymphocytes, causing their proliferation and thereby leading to a significant release of cytokines. This hyperproductive reaction causes a systemic effect on the macroorganism and leads to devastating consequences.

It was revealed that a genetic predisposition to erysipelas in some cases can be realized only in elderly people against the background of repeated sensitization to streptococcus and the presence of involuting degenerative age-related changes. Infectious-allergic and immunocomplex mechanisms of inflammation determine the serous or serous-hemorrhagic nature of the disease, which is accompanied by hyperemia, significant swelling and infiltration of the affected areas of the skin and subcutaneous fat. IN pathological process lymphatic (lymphangitis), arterial (arteritis) and venous (phlebitis) vessels are also involved. The affected lymphatic vessels are swollen, dilated due to the accumulation of serous or hemorrhagic exudate in them. Along the way lymphatic vessels in case of lymphangitis, swelling of the subcutaneous fatty tissue is noted.

The general effect of streptococcal infection in erysipelas is manifested by fever, intoxication, toxic damage internal organs. Spreading through the lymphatic and blood vessels, streptococci under certain conditions can lead to the appearance of secondary organ purulent complications - the process can occur with purulent infiltration of connective tissue, up to the formation of abscesses ( phlegmonous form), as well as necrosis of tissue areas (gangrenous form). The addition of purulent inflammation always indicates a complicated course of the disease. In recurrent forms of erysipelas, the main route of infection is endogenous. During the inter-relapse period, the causative agent of erysipelas remains in the body in the form of a latent (sleepy) infection, in the walls of veins (with varicose veins or thrombophlebitis) and lymphatic vessels, scars on the skin, trophic ulcers and other local lesions. Today, this infection is identified with streptococci, which can persist for a long time in the cells of the system mononuclear phagocytes(SMF), as well as in skin macrophages in the area of stable localization of the erysipelas.

Under the influence of provoking factors that weaken the immune system of the macroorganism, reversion into vegetative bacterial forms of streptococcus occurs, which leads to a relapse of the disease. That is why erysipelas, which often recurs, is a chronic streptococcal infection, periodically manifesting itself with the next relapse of the disease. In women radically operated for breast tumors, a clearly defined favorable factor is revealed - persistent lymphostasis of the upper extremities, caused by a disorder of lymph outflow through the removal and damage of lymphatic collectors during surgery (postmastectomy syndrome).

IN International classification diseases are distinguished by erysipelas and puerperal erysipelas. According to clinical symptoms primary, recurrent and chronic erysipelas are distinguished. In addition, the diagnosis indicates the location and spread of the inflammatory process, the nature of the predominant local lesion (erythematous, bullous, hemorrhagic and their combinations), the degree of severity, the development of complications, which include the appearance of phlegmon or gangrene. In primary and repeated erysipelas, for which the exogenous route of infection is key, it is possible to determine incubation period(as the time from the moment of skin damage to the appearance of the first symptoms of the disease), which ranges from 2-3 to 5-7 days.

Primary erysipelas is an episode that occurs for the first time. Repeated erysipelas is observed more than 2 years after the occurrence of the first case of the disease and has no pathogenetic connection with it. Clinical picture these forms of erysipelas are similar: the disease begins acutely, with rapid promotion body temperature, often chills, general intoxication manifestations. It is the fever and severity of intoxication that determine the degree of severity.

In severe cases, tachycardia, decreased blood pressure, muffled heart sounds, nausea and vomiting are observed as a manifestation of toxic myocardiopathy and encephalopathy, rarely - minor meningeal signs. Local manifestations occur later than general ones: only after 6-24 hours do patients begin to feel a short tightening of the skin at the site of the lesion, and then swelling, burning, and minor pain. Only if the lesion is localized in open, accessible visual inspection parts of the body (on the face), patients and those around them can immediately see a slight erythema. In other cases, they pay attention to it only when subjective local sensations appear.

With an erythematous lesion, a red spot first appears, which, quickly spreading, often turns into a large erythema of bright red color with uneven (“tongues of flame”, “ geographic map") and clear (roll along the periphery) contours of the affected area. This erythema rises to the touch above the surface of unchanged skin. In disorders of lymph circulation, hyperemia has a cyanotic tint, in trophic disorders of the dermis with lymphatic-venous insufficiency - brown. The skin in the area of inflammation is infiltrated and shiny , tense, hot to the touch, moderately painful on palpation, more in the periphery. At rest, the pain of the erythema is almost absent. The swelling spreads beyond the erythema and is more pronounced in areas with developed subcutaneous fatty tissue (eyelids, lips, genitals). The size of the erythema increases due to peripheral growth. In the case of an erythematous-bullous or erythematous-hemorrhagic lesion, blisters or hemorrhages appear against the background of erythema, and in the case of a bullous-hemorrhagic lesion, hemorrhagic exudate and fibrin are found in the blisters. different size, usually several of them are formed. When the blisters are damaged or spontaneously rupture, exudate flows out and the erosive surface is exposed.

The development of regional lymphadenitis and lymphangitis is characteristic. Lymph nodes are moderately painful on palpation and elastic. Along the lymphatic vessels, in the event of lymphangitis, striped redness appears on the skin, which goes from the affected area to the regional lymph node; upon palpation of this formation, moderate pain and density are detected. Fever and intoxication in primary and repeated uncomplicated erysipelas without treatment last 3-7 days. In the case of erythematous lesions, local manifestations subside after 5-8 days, in other forms - after 10-14 days. Residual signs of erysipelas are pigmentation, peeling, slight itching and pasty skin, the presence of dry dense crusts in place of bullous elements.

In modern conditions, erysipelas is most often observed on the lower extremities, less often on the face and hands. When the lower extremities are affected, the pathological process develops on the skin of the legs. This localization is characterized by all types of local manifestations. Lymphadenitis occurs in the groin area on the affected side. Also, with facial erysipelas, all of the above options for local lesions can be observed. Regional lymphadenitis is found in the submandibular region; lymphangitis is less pronounced than when erysipelas is localized on the lower extremities. Sometimes inflammation also affects areas of the scalp. In the event of a pathological focus on the upper limb, an erythematous lesion and corresponding axillary lymphadenitis are more often observed. This location is common in women after mastectomy. It is extremely rare to develop erysipelas of the trunk, which usually has a descending character (when moving from the upper extremities or cervical area). In some cases, it spreads from the lower extremities. Isolated erysipelas of the torso happens casuistically. Occasionally, erysipelas of the external genitalia is recorded, which usually occurs as a result of the transition of the inflammatory process from adjacent areas of the skin (thigh, abdomen).

In the pre-antibiotic era, female genital erysipelas were the scourge of maternity wards. Lesions of the genital organs and perineum in women develop in the presence of scar changes after surgical interventions on the pelvic organs. Erysipelas of the external genitalia in men is quite severe due to rapid development lymphostasis. Gangrenous changes in the male genitalia when started in a timely manner effective antibiotic therapy, as a rule, no.

The appearance of erysipelas in newborns and children in the first year of life, which often has a widespread or wandering character, is especially dangerous. In newborns, the pathological process is most often localized in the navel and within 1-2 days spreads to the lower limbs, buttocks, back and entire torso. Severe intoxication and fever quickly increase, and convulsions may occur. Sepsis often develops. Mortality is extremely high.

Chronic erysipelas is characteristic of lesions of the extremities, especially the lower ones. It manifests itself as recurrent lesions with the same localization of the inflammatory process, which occurs in the next 2 years after primary erysipelas and further progresses. In some cases of primary or recurrent erysipelas of the extremities, regional lymphadenitis and skin infiltration persist for a long time, which indicates the risk of early relapse of the disease. Long-term storage persistent edema is a sign of lymphostasis. If, during the formation of a chronic form of erysipelas, the course of the first episodes of relapse is similar to that of primary erysipelas, then as their frequency increases, a weakening of the severity of the general toxic syndrome is observed, temperature reaction(up to cases of the absence of even low-grade fever), the appearance of non-relief dull erythema without swelling, poorly demarcated from unaffected areas of the skin, as well as the presence of consequences of previously suffered erysipelas. With frequent relapses, the skin atrophies or thickens, venous insufficiency, elephantiasis and other changes increase.

How to treat erysipelas?

Treatment of erysipelas carried out taking into account the clinical form and severity of the disease. Its leading direction is antibacterial therapy. Although sometimes staphylococci are also isolated on the surface of the skin in addition to streptococcus, most clinicians deny the need to use protected penicillins for erysipelas. It is also considered inappropriate to use in typical cases of the disease. antibacterial agents, acting on strains of staphylococci. For primary and recurrent erysipelas, the drug of choice remains penicillin, which is prescribed in a dose of at least 1 million units 6 times a day intramuscularly for at least 7-10 days, and sometimes more. However, due to certain technical problems (the need for frequent parenteral administration) its use is limited primarily to hospital treatment.

It is possible to use ampicillin or amoxicillin, cephalosporins (ceftriaxone, cefotaxime or ceftazidime intramuscularly). If not severe course oral antibiotic therapy with aminopenicillins is indicated. It is also possible to use cephalosporins orally (fadroxil, cephalexin, cefuroxime, cefixime). After disappearing clinical symptoms erysipelas and normalization of body temperature, it is recommended to use these antibacterial drugs for at least 3 more days.

In case of primary erysipelas, especially in the case of an allergy to penicillin, azithromycin, midecamycin, josamycin, clarithromycin or roxithromycin are prescribed orally. It is also recommended to take ciprofloxacin or ofloxacin for 7-10 days.

For erythematous-bullous lesions with primary or repeated form erysipelas undergo the same antibacterial treatment, supplemented with local treatment. In the acute period, restriction of movements is recommended, especially with erysipelas of the lower extremities. Elevated position of the limb is required to improve venous outflow and reducing swelling. It is not recommended to open the blisters, since the erosions that form during erysipelas heal poorly and very slowly. The wound surface gradually dries out, and new layers of epidermal tissue form under the wrinkled crust. If erosions occur, it is better to apply bandages with hypertonic solution sodium chloride, 0.02% solution of furatsilin, chloroform, which are changed several times during the day. After the affected surface dries and good granulation appears, the wounds are periodically lubricated with 10% methyluracil ointment or chlorophyllipt spray to accelerate the healing of eroded surfaces.

For any uncomplicated erysipelas, it is contraindicated to use local drugs containing substances that increase exudation and cause the formation and rupture of blisters (for example, Vishnevsky ointment), tight bandaging of the limbs. Oral detoxification is indicated; in case of severe erysipelas, active intravenous detoxification therapy is carried out according to the general rules.

In addition to etiotropic drugs, patients with hemorrhagic lesions are prescribed vitamin complexes that strengthen the vascular wall, for example ascorutin. Modern ones are also used antihistamines. Physiotherapeutic methods can include suberythemal doses of ultraviolet irradiation. In case of severe regional lymphadenitis or intense pain syndrome in persons without concomitant diseases The cardiovascular system is sometimes treated with UHF therapy (3-6 sessions per affected area or regional lymph nodes). In case of purulent local complications, standard surgical treatment is performed. For get well soon ozokerite, naphthalan ointment, paraffin applications, electrophoresis of lidase, calcium chloride are prescribed.

Treatment of chronic erysipelas should be carried out in a hospital setting. It is mandatory to prescribe reserve antibiotics that were used in the treatment of previous relapses. Sometimes, with frequent relapses, it is necessary to prescribe several courses of various antibacterial drugs. In addition, you can use normal polyspecific human immunoglobulin, which contains a wide range of neutralizing antibodies to streptococcal antigens. In case of chronic erysipelas, it is first necessary to carry out aggressive therapy for concomitant diseases that contribute to chronicity (mycoses, venous insufficiency, thrombophlebitis, etc.), or, for example, to achieve compensation for diabetes mellitus. Necessary measures is the identification and sanitation of chronic foci of streptococcal infection in the body. Immunocorrective therapy is also indicated, but the list of drugs, the duration of their use and dosage each time require an individual approach with an assessment of the level of changes in the immunogram, the severity of concomitant diseases, etc.

What diseases can it be associated with?

Complications of erysipelas are conventionally divided into local and general. The first occur directly in the pathological focus or near it. These include:

superficial or deep skin necrosis,
necrotizing fasciculitis,
suppuration of bullous elements.

As a rule, the listed complications develop during the acute period of the disease and aggravate general state patients. With erysipelas, abscesses of the eyelids or nasolacrimal duct most often occur. Gangrene can occur if additional damage staphylococci (). Complications of facial erysipelas also include sinus thrombosis, sinusitis, otitis, and mastoiditis. In the pre-antibiotic period, the most severe complication of this localization was meningitis.

General complications are associated with the hematogenous spread of the pathogen and can be either single or multiple. In the latter case, they are caused by sepsis and arise as multiple foci of infection in various organs, infectious-toxic shock. The following types of complications are distinguished:

renal ( , ),
pleuropulmonary ( , ),
cardiac (more often),
ophthalmic (, retroorbital),
articular ( septic arthritis, bursitis).

The consequences of erysipelas include lymphostasis, which, if progressed, can lead to the development of significant secondary lymphedema (or elephantiasis).

Other residual signs and consequences of erysipelas include trophic skin disorders at the site of the lesion (thinning of the skin, its pigmentation, decreased functional activity of the sebaceous and sweat glands), thickening (induration) of the skin, and circulatory disorders in the veins. Prognosis for life in patients with primary and recurrent erysipelas modern stage is favorable. Complications from the infection are usually not life-threatening, and most cases recover without complications after treatment with antibiotics. However, erysipelas often enhances the clinical picture of underlying chronic diseases that occur in elderly patients, and in some cases causes death (for example, due to streptococcal sepsis, exacerbation of coronary heart disease, etc.). In approximately 20% of patients, erysipelas develops chronic course, often leads to a significant decrease in the quality of life and even disability of the patient.

Treatment of erysipelas at home

Treatment of erysipelas it is rarely carried out at home, since the intensity of etiotropic therapy requires a stay in a specialized institution and such frequent administration of various drugs that medical supervision must be ensured properly.

After completing the course of treatment for primary or recurrent erysipelas, before discharge of patients from the hospital, a clinical and immunological assessment of the possibility of recurrence of erysipelas should be carried out and, depending on its results, an individual plan of preventive measures should be developed. In case of primary, recurrent or chronic erysipelas, which rarely recurs, the main attention is paid to the treatment of concomitant diseases of the skin (especially mycoses) and peripheral vessels, as well as the sanitation of identified lesions chronic infection(tonsillitis, otitis, sinusitis, phlebitis, etc.). If erysipelas often recurs, a second stage of measures is carried out aimed at preventing reinfection and restoring normal reactivity of the body. The usual measures to prevent erysipelas in persons predisposed to this disease include careful personal hygiene: preventing the occurrence of microtraumas, diaper rash, and hypothermia. The basis for the prevention of chronic recurrent erysipelas is the systematic cyclic administration of long-acting penicillins.

What drugs are used to treat erysipelas?

- 0.5 g 1 time on the 1st day, from the 2nd to the 5th day - 0.25 g;
- 0.5-1.5 g (or 0.25-0.5 g for mild cases) 4 times a day;
- 1.0 g (or 0.5-1.0 g for mild cases) 2 times a day intramuscularly;
Josamycin - 1-2 g 2-3 times a day;
- 0.5-1 g 2 times a day;
Midecamycin - 0.4 g 3 times a day;
- 0.2-0.4 g 2 times a day for 7-10 days.
Roxithromycin - 0.15 g 2 times a day;
- 1.0-2.0 g 1-2 times a day;
- 0.25-0.5 g 2-4 times a day;
Cefixime - 0.4 g 1 time per day or 0.2 g 2 times per day;

Erysipelas on the leg - very dangerous disease. The name itself, if you translate the word from French, means “red”. And not in vain, because the process is always accompanied by hyperemia - redness of the skin at the site of the lesion.

Not receiving qualified assistance doctors, a person risks earning serious complications. Especially when they rely on treatment with folk remedies and completely aggravate the situation, letting it get out of control.

What kind of disease is this?

What is erysipelas on the leg? This is a manifestation of infection in the form of inflammation of the skin. Often the pathology manifests itself in the lower extremities. This can be explained by the fact that the feet are closer to the ground, and their contact with dirt and dust is simply inevitable. The culprit of erysipelas is streptococcus, which comes from the external environment.

The disease of erysipelas on the leg is quite specific. It is a known fact that older women are more likely to get sick, but among young people, on the contrary, the disease actively affects men.

Often this disease is carried by elderly people and those who spend a long time on the street or in unsanitary working conditions, which leads to frequent long-term contact process with dust, dirt and infectious agents.

Causes of the disease

The culprit of erysipelas on the leg is a streptococcal infection. Its initial pathogen is streptococcus. He himself enters the body through the “gate”, namely:

bites of various insects from the environment;
any kind of scratching;
injuries, burns.

To all of the above, it is worth adding that the disease can appear as a result of a very old streptococcal infection (tonsillitis, advanced caries).

Bacteria from their main location, along with the blood, begin to “walk” along the walls of the body. This way they create problems throughout the body, including dermatological diseases. Strong immunity is an enemy to pathology, but if for some reason it has become weaker, the consequences can be unpleasant.

In addition to weak immunity, there are many other reasons that can affect the development of erysipelas:

stress and anxiety;
constant hypothermia of the legs;
strong tan;
alcoholism;
ulcers;
varicose veins;
thrombophlebitis.

Erysipelas on the leg: is it contagious?

The disease itself is a type of infectious disease, and can be fully included in the list of contagious diseases. The infection is easily transmitted from person to person. Therefore, if possible, it is still worth avoiding contact with infected person. If the patient lives in the same house with you, it is necessary to treat wounds with sterile gloves and after each procedure, thoroughly wash your hands with detergent, or better yet, with an antiseptic.

Symptoms

The disease has a long incubation period - about 10 days. After this time is completed, the erysipelas on the leg begins to show its symptoms.

As a rule, at the first stage it is felt in the form of a general malaise:

headache;
fatigue and muscle pain;
elevated temperature;
sometimes vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and even sometimes anorexia are possible.

This is what a erysipelas on a leg looks like. After the first signs, after a day (no later), burning, pain, tension are added, the affected area begins to redden and swell.

Types and forms of erysipelas on the leg

The forms of inflammation of the legs are distributed according to the nature of local changes:

Erythematous form– the affected area begins to turn red. In this case, the erythema that has just appeared will be higher than the skin itself. It has clearly defined boundaries. Its main difference is the irregular shape of the edges and a very bright, even color.
Erythematous-bullous form– initially looks the same as the first form, although after a couple of days the skin in the area gradually peels off. In parallel with this, bubbles form. Those, in turn, are filled with liquid without color. When the blisters burst, brown crusts take their place. With timely medical care, as soon as the crusts begin to fall off, pink, youthful skin forms in their place. But if help is not provided on time, the depressions under the crusts will gradually turn into trophic ulcers.
Erythematous-hemorrhagic form– it looks almost the same as in the form described above, however, hemorrhage may occur in the affected areas.
Bullous-hemorrhagic form– outwardly it is very similar to the erythematous-bullous form. The only difference is that the blisters on the skin do not fill clear liquid, but with blood.