title: [Erysipelas and lymphedema].
abstract: The most common complication of lymphedema is erysipelas (Saint Anthony's fire). The protein-rich lymph is such an excellent medium for the growth of bacteria that the risk of erysipelas developing is as high in the most severe forms of lymphedema as 50% compared with only 1/1000 in the general population. Treatment requires the use of antibiotics. Of importance for prophylaxis is the rigorous disinfection of minor injuries that provide a portal for bacteria, usually streptococci, and the physical edema therapy described by Asdonk comprising manual lymph drainage and compression.
authors.affiliation: Fachklinik für Lymphologie und Odemkrankheiten, Feldbergklinik.
authors.forename: U
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Herpertz
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004886:Erysipelas / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents
vernacular_title: Erysipel und Lymphödem.