Erysipelas

Other Names : ignis sacer, holy fire, St. Anthony's fire
Erysipelas is an acute infection typically with a skin rash, usually on any of the legs and toes, face, arms, and fingers. It is an infection of the upper dermis and superficial lymphatics, usually caused by beta-hemolytic group A Streptococcus bacteria on scratches or otherwise infected areas. Erysipelas is more superficial than cellulitis, and is typically more raised and demarcated.

Causes

The common bacterium which causes erysipelas is streptococci. They generally live on the skin without causing any harm; but when they enter the skin through any injury, cut, scratch or sore, they cause infection. Other medical conditions which cause any breakage of the skin, such as eczema or athlete's foot, can also lead to erysipelas. Conditions which prevent any fluid or blood draining from a region also increase the risk of erysipelas. Face is affected when the bacteria from the nasal passages after an ENT infection spread to the face.
Conditions Which Can Lead To Erysipelas Are:

• Ulcers and cuts in the skin.
• Insect bites.
• Surgical incisions.
• Skin conditions like athlete's foot, eczema and psoriasis.
• Obesity.
• Uncontrolled diabetes.
• Use of I.V. illegal drugs.
• Previous history of erysipelas.

Risk Factors for Erysipelas

• Taking immunosuppressants.
• Having a previous history of erysipelas.
• Individuals aged above 60.
• Weak immune system.
• Very young and very old individuals.

Natural remedies

• Mesua Ferrea : Dried flowers are again used in treating bleeding hemorrhoids and dysentery with mucus, applied externally for itchiness, taken internally for nausea, erysipelas, bleeding piles, metrorrhagea, menorrhagea, excessive thirst and sweating.
• Bothrops Lanceolatus for Swollen, livid, cold with hæmorrhagic infiltration. Gangrene. Lymphatics swollen. Anthrax. Malignant erysipelas.
• Healing saint : St. Anthony the Abbot

Special Precautions

If erysipelas condition is ignored and treatment is not sought, then it can result in complications like abscess, blood clots, blood poisoning, gangrene, infection of the heart valves, bone and joint infection. If the erysipelas affects the region near the eyes, then the infection can spread to the brain.