[Erysipelas and lymphedema].

The most common complication of lymphedema is erysipelas (Saint Anthony's fire). The protein-rich lymph is such an excellent medium for the growth of bacteria that the risk of erysipelas developing is as high in the most severe forms of lymphedema as 50% compared with only 1/1000 in the general population. Treatment requires the use of antibiotics. Of importance for prophylaxis is the rigorous disinfection of minor injuries that provide a portal for bacteria, usually streptococci, and the physical edema therapy described by Asdonk comprising manual lymph drainage and compression.