Erysipelas
ICD-10 A46 · ICD-11 1B70.0

Treatment of Erysipelas in Adults (Age 18 and Over) Without Penicillin Allergy

This protocol covers first-line antibiotic management for adults aged 18 and over presenting with erysipelas who have no penicillin allergy and whose infection is not located near the eyes or nose.

Clinical scenario

Adults aged 18 years and over, confirmed absence of penicillin allergy, infection site away from the periocular and nasal area.

Treatment approach

Management centres on flucloxacillin. The course length and clinical approach are determined by the individual presentation; the complete regimen is available in the structured protocol.

Clinical goals

Symptom improvement is expected within the first few days of treatment. Complete resolution of symptoms at the initial treatment endpoint is not anticipated.

References

table 1 for adults aged 18 years and over

Flucloxacillin (5 to 7 days):

A longer course length (up to 14 days in total) may be needed based on clinical assessment.

seeking medical help if symptoms worsen rapidly or significantly at any time, or do not start to improve within 2 to 3 days.

However, skin does take some time to return to normal, and full resolution of symptoms at 5 to 7 days is not expected.

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