A26: Erysipeloid

A26.7: Erysipelothrix sepsis

Erysipelas is caused by certain bacteria. The bacteria occur in pigs, poultry, fish, crabs and shellfish, for example. You can become infected by having contact with infected animals or processing them. The bacteria can get into the skin via a small lesion.

Blood poisoning is the most severe outcome of a disorder that has been caused by pathogens. Blood poisoning is also known as sepsis. With this, pathogens or their toxins may spread throughout the body via the blood. If the body’s immune system does not react properly to this, organs and tissue can become damaged. The damage may be extremely severe. It may be impossible to get it under control. Blood poisoning makes you very ill. You may become confused and sleepy. You may have a fever and a very fast pulse. Your breathing may also be abnormally fast. Blood poisoning can affect many organs in the body. For example, the kidneys may no longer produce enough urine. As a result of the blood poisoning, one or more of your organs is not working properly. The joints or cardiac valves may also be inflamed.

You can also have changes to your skin. The lymph nodes in the affected area can also be swollen.