$Unique_ID{BRK00960}
$Pretitle{Infections or Parasites, Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue}
$Title{Is "Erysipelas" the Same Thing as "Cellulitis"?}
$Subject{erysipelas strep infection}
$Volume{A-20, L-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is "Erysipelas" the Same Thing as "Cellulitis"?


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QUESTION:  I have just recovered from a rather nasty infection that my doctor
called "erysipelas".  It was a term I was not familiar with, but antibiotics
brought it under control.  An associate from work who visited me, said he had
the same thing but his doctor called it "cellulitis".  From what I have told
you, is it possible to clear this question up for us?

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ANSWER:  I can if you permit me to stick close to the exact definitions of
these two similar infections.  However, I think it is fair to state that in
many cases they are generally both grouped together, and the term "cellulitis"
may be used.  They are both infections of the skin.  Erysipelas is the most
superficial, confined to the outside layers of the subcutaneous tissues which
lie just beneath the skin.  Cellulitis runs deeper in the layer and may
develop following a puncture wound.  Although both may be caused by one of the
bacteria in the streptococcus family, they do have different appearances,
which can be readily observed by the physician, and helps with the diagnosis.
The border of the lesion in erysipelas has a distinct edge, which raises up
above the surrounding tissue.  Since cellulitis lies more deeply it does not
produce this effect, although it too creates a red, hot and tender area.  Both
conditions may be effectively treated with penicillin, usually by injection.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
