A26: Erysipeloid

Erysipeloid is an uncommon skin infection primarily caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, a bacterium commonly present in decaying organic matter, soil, and water. This disease notably affects people who deal with fish, meat, and poultry, which are common sources of the infection. One is most likely to contract the disease through the skin wounds that come into direct contact with an infected source. The infection typically initiates with a minor cut or abrasion and gradually spreads, causing warmth, itchiness, and an inflamed skin encompassing the wound. This slow-spreading, purplish-red rash typically takes and retains the shape of a diamond for several days to weeks. The rash may be painful to touch and can expand up to several inches across. In rare cases, complications such as joint inflammation or blood infection might occur. Erysipeloid care generally only involves the infected skin but occasionally may cause systemic effects if it enters the bloodstream.