Erysipelas: Causes

Pathogenesis (development of disease)

Erysipelas is a nonpurulent skin infection caused by β-hemolytic streptococci of group A (Streptococcus pyogenes), more rarely of group C or G, and only in exceptional cases – especially in newborns – of group B. It originates from a skin defect such as a wound or also a mycosis (fungal skin infection) and spreads extensively under the epidermis in the lymphatic vessels as well as in the connective tissue.

In rare cases, other bacteria may also be responsible for the development of erysipelas: for example, Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative rods such as Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Etiology (causes)

Biographic causes

  • Gender – men are affected slightly more often than women
  • Age – older age

Behavioral causes

Disease-related causes

Blood, hematopoietic organs – immune system (D50-D90).

  • Immunosuppression, unspecified

Endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases (E00-E90).

  • Obesity (obesity)
  • Diabetes mellitus (diabetes)

Skin and subcutaneous (L00-L99)

  • Skin defects/lesions
  • Intertrigo (intertriginous eczema; also called soreness or skin wolfing) – red, weeping inflammation of the skin promoted by softening of the same.
  • Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot)

Cardiovascular system (I00-I99)

  • Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) with congestion.
  • Chronic lymphedema – edema (fluid retention), with dell-like swelling of the skin and subcutaneous tissue due to impaired transport capacity of lymphatic vessels

Psyche – nervous system (F00-F99; G00-G99).

  • Alcohol abuse (alcohol dependence)

Injuries, poisonings, and certain other consequences of external causes (S00-T98)

  • Trauma (injuries)

Operations

  • Vein operations