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

- acute infection skin caused by group A streptococci. The disease is prone to relapse, and if the primary erysipelas most often appears on the face, then the recurrence of the 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 fighting the disease, but it is worth remembering that traditional medicine is only an addition 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 it are women.

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

Streptococci are very common in nature. Some of these bacteria live on the skin of any person. Under the condition of adequate functioning of the immune system, infection does not occur, but with a weakening of immunity against the background chronic diseases, erysipelas develop freely. This explains the prevalence of infection among elderly patients.

In children, erysipelas is extremely rare, but is a great threat. When infected, the disease spreads very quickly to the buttocks, back, lower limbs and leads to a very high intoxication of the body. Mortality in neonatal erysipelas is very high.

• Streptococci through damage penetrate into the lymphatic vessels and capillaries, causing, appearance, 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 disorders in the functioning of the immune system - against the background of reduced 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 restructuring of the skin and its sensitization to streptococcus. as show latest research, staphylococcal microflora is also involved in the development of the disease, especially when it comes to. When 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 remedy for symptomatic treatment. Decoctions and compresses can relieve swelling, and prevent the spread of the disease.

Cases of complete recovery in patients using only folk remedies, alas, are explained by the initially high immunity of the patient. That is, an infection that has penetrated inside provokes the release of the required immunoglobulin. The latter, when produced in enough suppresses the disease. In this case, antibodies are produced that do not allow re-inflammation to develop.

When immunity is weakened, the picture changes. The disease not only cannot be cured without antibiotics, but also goes into a more severe stage - blisters with serous contents appear, lymphostasis may develop. In addition, the likelihood of 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

Folk recipes are mainly aimed at reducing symptoms - swelling, soreness, fever, inflammation. In addition, decoctions of herbs that increase immunity contribute to the treatment. 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;
• should be included in your daily diet dairy products- kefir, yogurt, yogurt, as fresh as possible. Lactobacilli promote recovery normal operation intestines, and the latter is just the "base" for the synthesis of the corresponding immunoglobulins;
• lubricate inflammation with greasy creams and ointments to minimize contact with moisture;
• the sun, when sick, turns into medicinal product, that is, it is taken in doses: the affected skin can be irradiated with ultraviolet radiation 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. The "gates" for infection are injuries, calluses. A prerequisite 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 already existing chronic inflammation, areas with impaired blood circulation, with lymph stagnation.

It is on the legs that thrombophlebitis most often develops, which is an ideal soil for erysipelas. The victims of the disease are often people whose profession requires a long stay on their feet, and a weakened immune system no longer provides adequate protection.

For the treatment of erysipelas on the legs, both creams and lotions are used.

• A leaf of burdock is kneaded into gruel, mixed with a small amount of sour cream. The mixture is applied to the damaged area and held 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 well relieves inflammation and reduces pain.
• A compress helps relieve swelling and inflammation. potato juice. They keep him all night.
• With varicose veins, it is useful to use a cabbage compress. For this cabbage leaf crush, lubricate olive oil and applied to the inflamed area. The compress is fixed 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 healer methods can also help with erysipelas, which the video below will tell about:

On the hand

• The appearance of erysipelas on the arm is usually associated with drug use. Streptococci enter the lymphatic system through traces of injections, and therefore this disease is most often observed in men aged 20–35 years. With occupational injuries and diseases, erysipelas on the hands is rarely associated.
• In women, erysipelas may result from the removal of the breast. 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 means and more specific ones are used.

• A hawthorn compress is prepared as follows: juicy fruits are rubbed into gruel, applied to the skin and fixed with a bandage. Keep the composition for several hours.
• A compress from a mixture of vodka and honey in equal proportions quite successfully relieves inflammation and swelling. A piece of bandage is impregnated with the mixture and held on the arm for at least 1 hour. The procedure is repeated three times a day.
• Can be applied camphor oil. The oil is heated in a flask, gauze is moistened in a warm liquid and applied for 2 hours to the affected area. After removing the compress, the remaining oil is removed paper napkin, and a burdock leaf is applied to the focus of inflammation. The compress is repeated 3 times a day.
• 30% propolis ointment is prepared as follows: 1 kg of propolis is ground, poured into 300 ml pure alcohol and boil until the propolis dissolves. Then, 200 g of petroleum jelly is melted in a water bath and 50 g of an alcoholic solution of propolis is added to the mass. The composition is mixed, cooled, filtered through gauze and stored in glass containers. The ointment is applied twice a day to the focus of inflammation.
• A kind of absorbent that reduces inflammation is chalk, or rather, its mixture with crushed sage leaves in equal proportions. This gruel is applied to the inflammation 4 times a day and bandaged.

On the face

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

• With conjunctivitis the disease develops around the eye sockets.
• When a streptococcal infection occurs in the sinuses, erysipelas affects the cheeks and nose - an inflammation in the form of a "butterfly".
• With otitis media swelling and redness appear around the auricles, on the neck, scalp.

Erysipelas on the face is always accompanied by severe swelling and pain. At the same time, effective decongestant ointments cannot be used, as this increases the risk of inflammation. Relatively weak folk remedies are more useful.

• Flowers coltsfoot and chamomile are crushed, mixed in equal proportions, honey is added. The mixture is applied to the affected areas.
• The root of elecampane is rubbed, mixed with petroleum jelly in a ratio of 1: 4 and lubricated with the composition of 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.
• With erythematous erysipelas, the inflamed areas are smeared with pork fat every 3 hours.
• In the bullous form - the appearance of blisters, use a mixture of equal parts of crushed plantain, burdock and Kalanchoe. Fresh leaves are ground into gruel and placed on the inflamed area and fixed with a piece of gauze. Hold as a mask for at least 1 hour.
• With erysipelas, medicinal herbal preparations reducing inflammation and removing toxins.
• Dry crushed leaves are mixed in equal proportions: yarrow, calamus, burnet, eucalyptus. Part of the collection is poured with 10 parts of boiling water and insisted for 3 hours. The infusion is filtered and taken 4 times a day, 50 drops.
• For washing, as well as for the prevention of spread, decoctions of succession, chamomile and coltsfoot are used. This herb has pronounced antibacterial properties and prevents the attachment of a secondary infection.

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

A lot of good recipes from erysipelas is given in this video:

What is erysipelas (erysipelas)

Acute, often recurrent infectious disease, which is manifested by fever, symptoms of intoxication and a characteristic skin lesion with the formation of a sharply limited focus of inflammation. This is a widespread streptococcal infection with a sporadic incidence that increases in the summer-autumn period.

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

Erysipelatous inflammation usually appears on the legs and arms, less often on the face, even more rarely on the trunk, in the perineum and on the genitals. All these inflammations are clearly visible to others and cause the patient a feeling of acute psychological discomfort.

Causes of erysipelas

Erysipelas can be caused by any serovar of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, the same serotypes can cause others streptococcal diseases(tonsillitis, pneumonia, sepsis, meningitis, etc.).

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

Some people get sick repeatedly, as immunity after erysipelas is unstable. Streptococci enter the body through small lesions of the skin and mucous membranes. Perhaps exogenous infection (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 the organism's reactivity is of decisive importance, causing wide fluctuations in susceptibility to infectious pathogens, in particular to streptococci.

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

In this case, fragility of the vessels, manifested in point hemorrhages, is often noted. In the occurrence of relapses of erysipelas in the same place, allergic restructuring and skin sensitization to hemolytic streptococcus matter.

A decrease in the overall resistance of the organism contributes to the attachment of the 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 undergone primary and especially repeated and recurrent erysipelas, staphylococcal flora has, which must be taken into account when prescribing treatment.

Erysipelas symptoms

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 of general intoxication are more pronounced:

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

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

The area affected by erysipelas is clearly separated from the healthy one by an elevated, sharply painful roller. The skin in the focus area is hot to the touch, tense. If there are small punctate hemorrhages, then they talk about erythematous - hemorrhagic form faces. With bullous erysipelas against the background of erythema, bullous elements are formed at various times after its appearance - blisters containing a clear and transparent liquid.

Later, they subside, forming dense brown crusts, which are rejected after 2-3 weeks. Erosions and trophic ulcers can form at the site of the blisters. All forms of erysipelas are accompanied by defeat lymphatic system- lymphadenitis, lymphangitis.

Primary erysipelas are more often localized on the face, recurrent - on the lower extremities. There are early relapses (up to 6 months) and late (over 6 months). Concomitant diseases contribute to their development.

The most important 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 adverse professional factors.

The duration of the disease, local manifestations of erythematous erysipelas disappear by the 5th-8th day of illness, with other forms they can last more than 10-14 days. Residual symptoms erysipelas - pigmentation, peeling, pastosity of the skin, the presence of dry dense crusts in place of bullous elements. Perhaps the development of lymphostasis, leading to elephantiasis of the limbs.

Descriptions of erysipelas symptoms

Which doctors to contact with erysipelas

Complications of erysipelas

Of the most common complications of erysipelas, ulcers, necrosis, abscesses, phlegmon, as well as lymphatic circulation disorders leading to lymphostasis, can be noted. rare cases- pneumonia and sepsis.

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

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

Erysipelas in children

In newborns, erysipelas is more often localized in the navel. The process within 1-2 days extends to the lower limbs, buttocks, back and the entire body. In newborns, erysipelas is often common, or wandering.

Rapidly growing intoxication, fever, there may be convulsions. Often there is sepsis. The lethality is extremely high. Erysipelas are just as dangerous for children of the first year of life.

The prognosis of the disease is conditionally favorable, with adequate timely treatment erysipelas high probability complete cure and rehabilitation. In some cases, it is possible to form recurrent forms of the disease, which are much less amenable to treatment.

Erysipelas treatment

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

Medical treatment

Etiotropic therapy: antibiotics of the penicillin series in average daily dosages (penicillin, tetracycline, erythromycin or oleandomycin, oletethrin, etc.). Less effective drugs are sulfonamides, combined chemotherapy drugs (bactrim, septin, biseptol). The course of treatment for erysipelas is usually 8-10 days.

• tseporin;
• oxacillin;
• ampicillin;
• methicillin.

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

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

• chlotazol;
• butadione;
• reopyrin, etc.

Appropriate purpose:

• ascorbic acid;
• routine;
• B group vitamins.

Autohemotherapy gives good results.

Physiotherapy

In the acute period of the disease, the focus of inflammation is indicated by the appointment of UVI, UHF, followed by the use of ozocerite (paraffin) or naftalan.

Surgery

Local treatment of uncomplicated erysipelas is carried out only with its bullous form: a bulla is incised at one of the edges and dressings with a solution of rivanol, furacilin are applied to the focus of inflammation.

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

Folk remedies for the treatment of 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 desirable to change the lifestyle: avoid unfavorable working conditions associated with frequent hypothermia, sudden changes in air temperature, dampness, drafts; skin microtraumas and other occupational hazards; avoid stress.

timely and complete antibiotic therapy primary disease and relapses;

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

treatment of long-term and persistent chronic skin diseases (mycosis, eczema, dermatosis, etc.), leading to a violation of its trophism and serving as an entrance gate for infection;

treatment of foci of chronic streptococcal infection ( chronic tonsillitis, sinusitis, otitis, 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. I have erythematous erysipelas of the right lower leg for the fourth time (the first time I got sick at 23). In previous times, it was possible to quickly cope with the disease, but now the disease has simply dragged on, despite the fact that she followed all the doctor's orders. According to the blood test at the beginning of the disease - an excess of ESR to 43. She began treatment by piercing 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, licopid tablets 2mg/10 days. As soon as the antibiotic finished injecting, the redness began to come up again. According to the KLA: leukocytes are increased to 12, and the ESR is normal -7. Started taking physical procedure - darsenval on the shin area No. 10. The antibiotic azithromycin 500 mg was prescribed for 3 days, levomekol ointment was applied externally on the lower leg 2 times a day. She drank, passed a blood test, leukocytes returned to normal, and the ESR increased to 35, a slight swelling and hyperemia remained on the lower leg. Again, an antibiotic was prescribed, one injection of bicillin-5, I continue to treat the lower leg with levomekol ointment, but the redness still does not subside, but it can be said to increase. Please advise what should I do, what went wrong in my treatment? A slight swelling and hyperemia persists despite the fact that she took a course with three antibiotics. On sick leave for 21 days! What do you advise?

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

Question:Left foot swollen, ankle. Terrible pain. It is impossible to move. After you get out of bed - aches. Three ulcers just above the ankle. There is swelling around them. Perhaps the swelling is caused by this. What antibiotic should be taken to bring down the swelling. The rest will be completed by Zodak and Hyoksizon. Thank you in advance!

Answer: The clinical picture you describe resembles erysipelas. Treatment should be complex and carried out under the supervision of a surgeon, since the inflammatory process can spread rapidly. Antibacterial treatment is carried out with penicillins or macrolides. Do not self-medicate!

Question:Erysipelas appeared on inside forearms of the left hand. Took 7 days ampioks 2 drops. 4 r. per day, Tylenol 1 tab. 2 p. per day and paracetamol 1 t. 2 p. in a day. The symptoms practically disappeared, but on the 7th day the shoulder up the arm 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 rapidly. It is not necessary to immediately cancel antibiotic therapy after the disappearance of symptoms.

Question:The legs are swollen, red spots, it hurts a lot. Is it possible to give birth during an illness?

Answer: On a clinical picture described by you is an erysipelatous inflammation. It is necessary to consult an infectious disease specialist. Erysipelas is not a contraindication for childbirth.

Question:Husband stabbed his leg. The wound has become infected. Pus appeared, the wound somehow closed, the infection remained inside. Doctors diagnose erysipelas, but I think they are wrong. The whole leg turned red and swollen, near the puncture, the skin began to peel off, as with a burn. Do you think we can contact another specialist? Husband is 52 years old. The disease lasts for two weeks, at first they were engaged in self-treatment, since he worked and came late. Didn't go to the hospital. She applied ichthyolka, smeared with brilliant green, treated with peroxide. For two days I drank antibiotics Sumametsin, they advised me at the pharmacy. The urticaria has gone. Yesterday he was admitted to the hospital, but so far no surgical treatment has been used. They put me on a dropper in the evening and gave me a sleeping pill and that's it.

Answer: Surgical treatment at the moment should be carried out only if an abscess has formed. If it is not there, and the pus has "soaked" 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 an erysipelas on her lower legs. Treated: ointments with streptocid ointment, ointment 36 and 6, Vishnevsky ointment, furacilin ointment, fucorcin smeared ulcers. She went to the hospital on January 17, 2011 for 2 weeks, she was treated with droppers, bandages were made with boron liquid. After the hospital, she was treated with levomekol, and recently she started treatment with Argosulfan. No improvement. Tell me what to do next!

Answer: Considering that erysipelas is caused, most often, by streptococcal infection, treatment with those antibacterial drugs to which the causative agent of infection is sensitive in this particular case is necessary. 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 am 24 years old. I have the smallest stone 4 mm, and the largest 8 mm, I have a lot of them. When I mix food, I have an attack, the appearance of stones is bachelor. 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 no result. What can you recommend? Is it possible to get rid of such stones without surgery. Thank you in advance for your reply.

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

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

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

Question:I am 48 years old. I have erysipelas in my left leg. The diagnosis was made in regional hospital. Treatment was prescribed - bicillin-5 once a month. It's been 4 months and there is no improvement at all. The red area of ​​inflammation increases. There were jerking pains. What additional medication would you recommend? Thank you.

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

Erysipelatous inflammation of the leg, the symptoms and treatment of which depend on the state of immunity, refers to bacterial infectious diseases. 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, low immunity.

The causes of the development of the disease are the penetration of infection into the body through scratches, scratches and other damage to the skin. The main causes of inflammation of the skin are neglected caries, chronic tonsillitis. TO additional factors, contributing to the development of erysipelas of the leg, infectious disease specialists include:

• constant hypothermia of the lower extremities;
• strong sunburn;
• a sharp change in temperature;
• stress.

The causes of erysipelas can 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 observe 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 are manifested in the form of general malaise (migraine, chills, weakness, nausea, vomiting). After 24 hours, local signs are added to the above symptoms. Pain, burning, redness and swelling appear on the problem area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin. Subsequent symptoms are manifested taking into account the form of the disease.

Infectionists distinguish several forms of erysipelas of the legs:

1. Erythermatous - the affected area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin turns red, erythema is formed, which rises above the cover. Erythema has clear boundaries and irregular shape. Often the above picture is complemented by peeling of the skin.
2. Erythematous-bullous - 2-3 days after infection, it exfoliates from the problem area upper layer. In this case, bubbles with liquid are formed. They tend to burst. Then a brown crust forms. What is under it depends on the effectiveness of therapy. When providing timely medical care after the crust falls off, a pink and smooth skin. In other cases, painful erosions occur, which are easily transformed into trophic ulcers.
3. Erythematous-hemorrhagic - hemorrhage is observed in the affected areas.
4. Bullous-hemorrhagic - inflammation of the lower leg is accompanied by the appearance of vesicles filled with fluid with blood.

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

• elevated titers of antistreptolysin-O or another 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 in the focus of the inflammatory process at rest.

Treatment of erysipelas at home includes taking antibiotics. More often, patients are prescribed drugs of the penicillin and cephalosporin series. The causative agent of the disease is most sensitive to these medicines. Antibiotics are taken within 7-10 days. Tablets are recommended to drink strictly on time. Clinical assessment of the effectiveness of therapy is carried out simultaneously with the microbiological assessment of the condition of the skin. Such an integrated approach to the fight against erysipelas contributes to the rapid and complete recovery of the patient.

It is possible to cure erysipelas with medication, following the recommendations of a doctor. At the same time, the patient is prescribed desensitizing and immunomodulatory therapy. During life, microbes release toxins that provoke allergies. To prevent the aggravation of the pathology, Dimedrol or new generation medicines are taken. Effective immunomodulatory drugs include Timalin, Dekaris, Timalin. If necessary, use specific immune preparations - antistreptococcal serum, staphylococcal toxoid.

Local treatment is prescribed to have a direct effect on the pathological site. This therapy includes the application of cooling procedures. With the help of ethyl chloride cooling, pain can be relieved 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, with erysipelas, the following medications are taken:

1. Sulfonamides (Streptocid, Biseptol) - prevent the formation of bacteria in cells.
2. Nitrofurans (Furadonin) - their action is aimed at slowing down the growth and reproduction of bacteria.
3. Glucocorticoids (Prednisolone) - have a strong anti-allergic effect, but at the same time they depress immune system. Such medicines are taken as prescribed by the attending physician.
4. 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.
5. Multivitamins ( Ascorbic acid, Askorutin) - strengthen the walls of the CS, increasing the activity of the immune system.
6. Thymus medications (Taktivin) - the medication is administered intramuscularly. It improves the functioning of the immune system by increasing the number of T-lymphocytes.
7. Proteolytic enzymes (Trypsin) - are presented in the form of subcutaneous injections, the action of which is aimed at improving tissue nutrition and resorption of the infiltrate.

To treat the affected skin, you can not use synthomycin, cherry and ichthyol ointment. Such drugs increase the inflammatory process, provoking an abscess. Problem areas of the leg can be treated with the following means:

1. Application with a 50% solution of Dimexide - a gauze napkin is wetted in a solution, applied to problematic skin. The procedure is repeated 2 times a day. With the help of Dimexide, pain and inflammation are relieved, blood circulation improves. The drug has an antimicrobial effect, increasing the effect of antibiotic therapy.
2. Powder Enteroseptol - clean dry skin 2 times a day is sprinkled with powder. The drug prevents the attachment of other microbes.
3. Bandage with Microcide solution - compress paper is applied to the bandage. Microcide has an antimicrobial effect, destroying microbes in the thickness of the skin.
4. Oxycyclosol aerosol - problematic skin is treated with a similar agent. The agent is sprayed at a distance of 20 cm from the surface of the site. The procedure is repeated 2 times a day.

Physiotherapy for erysipelas of the leg is aimed at normalizing the disturbed metabolism in the tissues. With the help of this method of treatment, the frequency of recurrence is reduced, since they completely cure the patient. More often, doctors use ultraviolet irradiation of the affected areas of the skin. Such 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 a migratory form of erysipelas, diseased and healthy skin are exposed to radiation.

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

If erysipelas is accompanied purulent lesion legs, held surgery. The operation consists in the prompt opening and creation of an outflow of pus from the focus of inflammation. Such therapy prevents the development of purulent intoxication.

Folk remedies against erysipelas are taken after consultation with the attending physician. Healers advise treating erysipelas with conspiracies and a red cloth moistened with cobwebs and mold. Effective folk remedies for strengthening immunity are black radish, currants, cabbage, buckwheat, oats, peas, beets.

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

Raspberry and blackberry leaves have useful properties. They contain amino acids, in the absence of which there are violations in the vital activity of the patient's body. When treating erysipelas on the legs at home, it is recommended:

1. Weakly bandage the affected area, allowing only a light bandage, which must be changed 2-3 times a day. Pre-Shown antiseptic treatment skin cover.
2. Avoid excessive softening of the skin with ointment. Otherwise, additional infection of the wound will begin to develop.
3. After opening the bubbles, erosion is treated with hydrogen peroxide. The skin is dried with a powder consisting of boric acid, xeroform, streptocide. From above, the wound is covered with a two-layer gauze.

2 weeks after the onset of the disease, the redness subsides, but the swelling and pigments remain. In the absence of treatment, there 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 probability of developing sepsis, pneumonia and meningitis.

Pathogen toxins provoke myocarditis, rheumatism and glomerolonephritis. Local complications of erysipelas of the lower extremities include abscesses and phlegmons, trophic ulcers. At the same time, the volume of leg tissues sharply increases (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.

Forecast 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 observe local and general measures. The first group includes the following recommendations:

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

TO general measures precautions for the development of erysipelas, infectious disease specialists include:

• limited contact with infected people;
• after contact, antiseptic treatment of the skin is carried out;
• regular strengthening of the immune system due to the observance of the daily regimen;
• avoidance of stress;
• timely elimination of foci of chronic streptococcal infection;
• proper nutrition - the menu includes meat broths and exclude the use of stale food;
• year-round preventive injections of Bicillin.

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

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

Anthroponotic infectious disease, is one of the forms of damage by group A hemolytic streptococci. 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, 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 an erythematous skin lesion. In the 17th century, the prominent English physician T. Sydenham noted the similarity of erysipelas with an acute rash and considered it as common disease the whole organism. In the 50s of the 19th century, M.I. Pirogov observed an epidemic of erysipelas among the wounded in hospitals, identified phlegmonous and gangrenous forms of the disease. In 1868, the famous German surgeon T. Billroth gave the name to the pathogen "streptococcus". In 1881, R. Koch isolated these pathogens from tissue with 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 adipose tissue in patients with erysipelas, reproduced it experimentally by inoculating a culture of isolated microbes in animals and humans. 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, spread as a result of mass nosocomial infections, were stopped. However, prior to implementation in medical practice Antibacterial therapy erysipelas ran very hard in infants and the elderly, as well as in the case of localization of erysipelas on the mucous membranes (especially when the laryngeal part of the throat is affected). Antibiotic therapy has been very effective in the treatment of acute manifestations of erysipelas, but it was subsequently found that the use of antibiotics does not significantly reduce the frequency of recurrence of erysipelas.

Now the attention of researchers is focused on studying the features of pathogenesis, clinical immunology and immunogenetics of erysipelas, developing pathogenetically substantiated 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 slightly 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 is of great socio-medical importance.

According to selective data, today the incidence is on average 15-20 people per 10 thousand people. At the same time, as a rule, no more than 10-12% of the total number of patients are hospitalized. It 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 desiccation well and survive for several months in dry sputum and manure. These microorganisms 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 able to produce 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 determines the 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 cell wall capsule of streptococcus 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 inhibits the activity of phagocytic reactions of the macroorganism. Group A streptococci produce erythrogenic toxins hemolytic activity in the destruction of erythrocytes, cardiomyocytes. Under certain conditions (the action of antibiotics, antibodies, the influence of lysozyme), the bacterial forms of streptococcus are able to transform into L-forms that are resistant to antibiotics and can stay in the human body for a long time, periodically reverting to the initial bacterial forms.

With uncomplicated erysipelas leading etiological factor disease is streptococcus, in debilitated 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, skin necrosis, cause purulent-necrotic complications.

The source of infection are patients with various streptococcal infections (pharyngitis, scarlet fever, streptoderma, otitis media, 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 pathway). Skin lesions may have the character of minor cracks, scratches, pricks, microtraumas and therefore remain undetected. With facial erysipelas, streptococci more often penetrate through microcracks in the nostrils or areas of damage to the external ear canal, with damage to the lower extremities - through cracks in the interdigital spaces, on the heels or areas of damaged skin in lower third shins. Also, the entrance gates of erysipelas can sometimes serve as places of insect bites, especially when combing them. Erysipelas can be transmitted by streptococcus-contaminated clothes, shoes, dressings, non-sterile medical instruments, etc. Almost a third of the patients are registered contact infection with secretions from the nasal part of the throat (in the presence of streptococcal lesions of the nasal, oral cavity or carriage) with the subsequent introduction of pathogens on damaged skin. In some cases, the pathogen enters the skin and subcutaneous adipose tissue by lymphogenous and by hematogenous routes from any source of streptococcal infection (endogenous route).

Erysipelas is observed everywhere in the form of sporadic cases of the disease. The main contingent 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, persons working physically predominate. The highest incidence was registered among locksmiths, loaders, motor transport 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 air humidity. Women suffer from erysipelas more often than men (respectively 60-65% and 35-40%). A pronounced summer-autumn seasonality was 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 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 mastectomy, surgical interventions on the pelvic organs, vascular bypass).

It has been established that the tendency to erysipelas is of a genetic 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 found that the genetic predisposition to erysipelas in some cases can be realized only in the elderly against the background of repeated sensitization to streptococcus and the presence of involutive degenerative diseases. 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 edema 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 the event of lymphangitis, edema 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 lymphatics and blood vessels, streptococci, under certain conditions, can lead to the appearance of secondary organ purulent complications - the process can proceed with purulent infiltration of the connective tissue, up to the formation of abscesses ( phlegmonous form), as well as necrosis of tissue sites (gangrenous form). The addition of purulent inflammation always indicates a complicated course of the disease. With recurrent forms of erysipelas, the main route of infection is endogenous. In the interrecurrent period, the pathogen 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 foci. Today, this infection is identified with streptococci that can persist for a long time in the cells of the system. mononuclear phagocytes(SMF), as well as in macrophages of the skin in the area of ​​stable localization of the focus of erysipelas.

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

IN International classification diseases distinguish erysipelas and postpartum erysipelas. According to clinical symptoms allocate primary, repeated and chronic erysipelas. 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 severity, the development of complications, which include the appearance of phlegmon or gangrene. In primary and recurrent erysipelas, for which the exogenous route of infection is the 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 onset 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 rise body temperature, often chills, general intoxication manifestations. It is the fever and the severity of intoxication that determine the degree of their severity.

In severe cases, tachycardia, a decrease in blood pressure, deafness of heart sounds, nausea and vomiting are observed as a manifestation of toxic myocardiopathy and encephalopathy, rarely - minor meningeal signs. Local manifestations occur later than the general ones: only after 6-24 hours, patients begin to feel a short tightening of the skin at the site of the lesion, and then bursting, burning, and slight pain. Only in case of localization of the lesion on open, accessible visual inspection parts of the body (on the face), patients and their environment 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, rapidly spreading, often turns into a large erythema of a bright red color with uneven ("tongues of flame", " geographic map") and clear (roller along the periphery) contours of the affected area. This erythema rises to the touch above the surface of unchanged skin. In case of lymph circulation disorders, hyperemia has a cyanotic hue, in trophic disorders of the dermis with lymphatic-venous insufficiency it is brown. The skin in the area of ​​inflammation is infiltrated, shiny , tense, hot to the touch, moderately painful on palpation, more along the periphery.At rest, there is almost no soreness of erythema.Edema extends beyond the erythema and is more pronounced in areas with developed subcutaneous fatty tissue (eyelids, lips, genitals).The size of erythema increases due to peripheral growth.In the case of an erythematous-bullous or erythematous-hemorrhagic lesion against the background of erythema, blisters or hemorrhages appear, and in the case of a bullous-hemorrhagic lesion, hemorrhagic exudate and fibrin are found in the blisters. different size, usually there are several of them. In case of damage or spontaneous rupture of the blisters, 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, elastic. In the course of the lymphatic vessels, in the event of lymphangitis, a striped redness appears on the skin, which goes from the affected area to the regional lymph node; palpation of this formation reveals moderate soreness and density. 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 pastosity of the skin, the presence of dry dense crusts in place of bullous elements.

In modern conditions, the face of the lower extremities is most often observed, less often - the face, hands. With the defeat of the lower extremities, the pathological process develops on the skin of the legs. This localization is characterized by all kinds of local manifestations. Lymphadenitis occurs in the groin on the side of the lesion. Also, with erysipelas of the face, all of the above options for local lesions can be observed. Regional lymphadenitis is found in the submandibular region; lymphangitis is less pronounced than with the localization of erysipelas on the lower extremities. Sometimes inflammation also covers areas of the scalp. In the case of a pathological focus on the upper limb, an erythematous lesion, the corresponding axillary lymphadenitis, is more often observed. This localization is common in women after mastectomy. Extremely rarely, the erysipelas of the trunk develops, which usually has a descending character (when moving from the upper limbs or the cervical region). In some cases, it spreads from the lower extremities. An isolated erysipelas of the torso happens casuistically. Occasionally, erysipelas of the external genital organs are 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 maternity was the scourge of maternity wards. Lesions of the genital organs and perineum in women develops in the presence of cicatricial changes after surgical interventions on the pelvic organs. The erysipelas of the external genitalia in men is quite difficult due to rapid development lymphostasis. Gangrenous changes in the male genitalia with timely started effective antibiotic therapy usually not.

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

Chronic erysipelas is characteristic of lesions of the extremities, especially the lower ones. It is manifested by recurrent lesions with the same localization of the inflammatory process, which occurs in the next 2 years after the primary erysipelas and further progresses. In some cases of primary or repeated erysipelas of the extremities, regional lymphadenitis and skin infiltration persist for a long time, which indicates the risk of early recurrence of the disease. long-term storage persistent edema is a sign of lymphedema. If during the formation of a chronic form of erysipelas, the course of the first episodes of relapse is similar to that in 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 subfebrile condition), the occurrence of non-relief dull erythema without edema, poorly delimited from unaffected areas of the skin, as well as the presence of the consequences of a previous erysipelas. With frequent relapses, the skin atrophies or thickens, venous insufficiency, elephantiasis and other changes increase.

How to treat erysipelas?

Erysipelas treatment carried out taking into account the clinical form and severity of the course of the disease. Its leading direction is antibacterial therapy. Although sometimes on the surface of the skin, in addition to streptococcus, staphylococci are also isolated, most clinicians deny the need for protected penicillins in erysipelas. It is also considered inappropriate to use in typical cases of the disease. antibacterial agents acting on strains of staphylococci. For primary and repeated erysipelas, penicillin remains the drug of choice, which is prescribed at 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 mainly to hospital treatment.

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

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

With erythematous-bullous lesions in primary or repeated form erysipelas carry out the same antibacterial, supplemented by local, treatment. In the acute period, restriction of movements is recommended, especially with erysipelas of the lower extremities. An elevated limb position is needed to improve venous outflow and reduce swelling. Blisters are not recommended to be opened, since the erosions that form during erysipelas heal poorly and very slowly. The wound surface gradually dries up, and new layers of epidermal tissue form under the wrinkled crust. On the resulting erosion, it is better to apply bandages with hypertonic saline sodium chloride, 0.02% solution of furacilin, chloroform, which are changed several times during the day. After the affected surface dries up 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 preparations containing substances that increase exudation and cause the formation and rupture of blisters (for example, Vishnevsky's ointment), tight bandaging of the limbs. Oral detox indicated; in severe erysipelas, active intravenous detoxification therapy is carried out according to general rules.

In addition to etiotropic drugs, patients with hemorrhagic lesions are prescribed vitamin complexes that strengthen the vascular wall, for example, ascorutin. Also used are modern antihistamines. From physiotherapeutic methods, suberythemal doses of UVR can be used. With severe regional lymphadenitis or intense pain syndrome in persons without concomitant diseases cardiovascular system, UHF therapy is sometimes used (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, naftalan ointment, paraffin applications, electrophoresis of lidase, calcium chloride are prescribed.

Treatment of the chronic form of 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 recurrence, you need to prescribe several courses of various antibacterial drugs. In addition, normal multispecific human immunoglobulin containing a wide range of neutralizing antibodies to streptococcal antigens can be used. In chronic erysipelas, it is first necessary to carry out aggressive therapy for concomitant diseases that contribute to chronicity (mycosis, venous insufficiency, thrombophlebitis, etc.), or, for example, to achieve compensation for diabetes mellitus. Necessary measures is the identification and rehabilitation 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 be associated

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

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

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

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

• renal ( , ),
• pleuro-pulmonary ( , ),
• 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).

Of the other residual signs and consequences of erysipelas, trophic skin disorders at the site of injury (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 are noted. Prognosis for life in patients with primary and recurrent erysipelas present stage is favorable. Complications of the infection are usually not life-threatening, and in most cases recovery is uneventful after antibiotic treatment. However, erysipelas often enhances the clinical background of 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 acquires chronic course, often leads to a significant decrease in the quality of life and even to disability of the patient.

Treatment of erysipelas at home

Erysipelas treatment at home is rarely carried out, since the intensity of etiotropic therapy requires a stay in a specialized institution and such frequent administration of various drugs that the control of doctors must be ensured properly.

After the end of the course of treatment for primary or repeated 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 primary, repeated or chronic erysipelas, which rarely recurs, the main attention is paid to the treatment of concomitant diseases of the skin (especially fungal infections) and peripheral vessels, as well as the sanitation of identified foci. chronic infection(tonsillitis, otitis, sinusitis, phlebitis, etc.). If erysipelas often recurs, the second stage of measures is carried out, aimed at preventing reinfection and restoring the normal reactivity of the body. The usual measures for the prevention of erysipelas in persons predisposed to this disease are careful personal hygiene: prevention of microtrauma, diaper rash, hypothermia. The basis for the prevention of chronic recurrent erysipelas is the systematic cyclic administration of long-acting penicillins.

What drugs to treat erysipelas?

• - 0.5 g 1 time on the 1st day, from the 2nd to the 5th day - 0.25 g each;
• - 0.5-1.5 g (or 0.25-0.5 g for mild course) 4 times a day;
• - 1.0 g (or 0.5-1.0 g for mild course) 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 a day;

Erysipelas on the leg - very dangerous disease. The name itself, if translated 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 having received qualified assistance doctors, a person risks earning serious complications. Especially when it counts on treatment with folk remedies and completely exacerbates the situation, losing it out of control.

What is this disease?

What is an erysipelas on a 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 legs are closer to the ground, and their contact with dirt and dust is simply inevitable. The culprit of erysipelas is streptococcus, which enters from the external environment.

The disease of erysipelas on the leg is quite specific. It is a well-known fact that it is women who get sick more often at the age, and among young people, on the contrary, the disease actively affects men.

It is not uncommon for the disease to be carried by the elderly and those who spend extended periods outdoors or in unsanitary work conditions, leading to frequent long-term contact process with dust, dirt and pathogens.

Causes of the disease

The culprit of erysipelas on the leg is a streptococcal infection. Its original causative agent is streptococcus. He himself enters the body through the "gate", namely:

• bites of various insects from the environment;
• any kind of combing;
• 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, neglected caries).

Bacteria from the main place of their location, together with the blood, begin to "walk" along the walls of the body. So they create problems throughout the body, including causing dermatological diseases. Strong immunity is an enemy for pathology, but if for some reason it becomes weaker, the consequences can be unpleasant.

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

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

Erysipelas on the leg: is it contagious?

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

Symptoms

The disease has a long incubation period of about 10 days. After this time, erysipelas on the leg shows 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.

Here is what the erysipelas on the leg looks like. After the first signs, after a day (not later), burning, pain, tension are added, the affected area begins to redden and swell.

Types and forms of erysipelas on the leg

Forms of leg inflammation are distributed according to the nature of local changes:

1. Erythematous form- the area that is affected begins to blush. In this case, the erythema that has just appeared will be higher than the skin itself. It has well-defined boundaries. Its main difference is the irregular shape of the edges and a very bright, even color.
2. Erythematous bullous form- initially looks the same as the first form, although after a couple of days the skin on the site gradually exfoliates. In parallel with this, bubbles form. Those, in turn, are filled with liquid without color. When the blisters explode, brown crusts take their place. With timely medical care, as soon as the crusts begin to move away, pink, young skin forms in their place. But if help is not provided on time, the depressions under the crusts will gradually turn into trophic ulcers.
3. Erythematous-hemorrhagic form- it looks almost the same as in the form described above, however, hemorrhage may occur in the affected areas.
4. 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 up. clear liquid but with blood.