[Erysipelas and impetigo].

Erysipela is a dermal or hypodermal infection of the skin, which predominantly involves the leg and is associated with high fever. Erysipela is most often caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. Venous insufficiency or lymphoedema are important local factors for the development of this infection which spreads from intertrigo, local wound or leg ulcer. Treatment is essentially based on parenteral penicillin G. Impetigo is a superficial infection of the skin due to Staphylococcus aureus or to Streptococcus pyogenes, and is frequent in children. Classical impetigo is made of yellow-brown crusts located around the mouth and nose, whereas bullous impetigo involves frequently the trunk and limbs. Secondary impetigo occurring in pediculosis or scabiosis is frequent. It is a contagious disease which is more frequent in patients with poor hygiene. It can be treated by general antibiotics, mainly macrolides, penicillin M or cephalosporins.