A 45-year-old man presents with a rapidly enlarging, erythematous, warm and tender area on his lower leg with well-demarcated raised borders and fever...

Question

A 45-year-old man presents with a rapidly enlarging, erythematous, warm and tender area on his lower leg with well-demarcated raised borders and fever 38.5°C. There is no abscess. What is the most likely diagnosis and appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Erysipelas; treat with oral phenoxymethylpenicillin for 5 days

Answer

Cellulitis; treat with topical mupirocin alone

Answer

Venous eczema; prescribe topical steroid only

Answer

Necrotising fasciitis; discharge with oral antibiotics

Answer

Contact dermatitis; avoid irritants only

au-racgp MCQ (SBA): Erysipelas

A 45-year-old man presents with a rapidly enlarging, erythematous, warm and tender area on his lower leg with well-demarcated raised borders and fever 38.5°C. There is no abscess. What is the most likely diagnosis and appropriate initial management?