Recurrent erysipelas: risk factors.
BACKGROUND
Several systemic and regional risk factors have been described for erysipelas. However, those predisposing for recurrent episodes are not well defined.


METHODS
We performed a retrospective analysis of 574 patients hospitalized in our institution during a 3 year period. The analysis included demographic, epidemiologic, and medical chart review data with special attention to background disorders. The patients with single and recurrent episodes of erysipelas were compared.


RESULTS
The recurrent cases occurred mainly in the lower limb with several risk factors that were statistically more common than in the single episode group including overweight, venous insufficiency, lymphedema, tinea pedis, and previous regional surgical intervention or trauma.


CONCLUSIONS
Patients with erysipelas, especially when it involves the lower limb, should be instructed to reduce weight, control venous insufficiency and/or lymphedema and to emphasize prevention and treatment of tinea pedis. The role of prophylactic antibiotics requires further study.
Pavlotsky
Felix
F
Department of Dermatology, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. felixp@post.tau.ac.il
Amrani
Shalom
S
Trau
Henry
H
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002648:Child; D004886:Erysipelas / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006760:Hospitalization / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D007868:Leg Dermatoses / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012008:Recurrence; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors