[How I prevent erysipelas and its consequences and recurrences]

Abstract

Erysipelas is a serious infection of the skin. In case of delay in initiating adequate antibiotic treatment, complications, sometimes dismal, can supervene. In addition, erysipelas shows a tendancy to recurrences. The prevention of an episode of erysipelas calls for correct personal hygiene and adequate use of topical antiseptics in case of skin effraction, even when minimal. When erysipelas is established, a rapidly initiated antibiotic treatment for a prolonged period prevents streptococcal gangrene complications. Elastic contention of any leg edema from venous or lymphatic origin and prophylactic antisepsis of discrete wounds help in preventing erysipelas recurrences.