Erysipelas (Wundrose)
Recognize and treat erysipelas early – with an experienced dermatologist at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich – Sihlcity
Erysipelas (Wundrose)
Have chronic abscesses and painful nodules clarified and treated by an experienced dermatologist at the Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity
Sudden skin redness with fever and swelling on the leg or the face – recognize erysipelas (Wundrose) and treat it with antibiotics
Examinations
Procedure
Duration
Initial examination including skin check: between 20 and 30 minutes
What is erysipelas?
Erysipelas – also called Wundrose – is a sudden skin infection usually caused by bacteria.
The bacteria enter through small skin injuries and lead to painful redness, swelling, and increased warmth of the skin.
The infection typically spreads quickly and can cause fever or a strong feeling of illness.
It most often affects the face and lower legs.
It’s important to diagnose and treat erysipelas if …
- you suddenly notice red, painful, tight or warm skin
- you develop fever or chills without a clear cause
- an existing skin wound suddenly becomes inflamed or spreads
- you’ve had erysipelas before and similar symptoms return
- you have a lymphatic condition, diabetes or a weakened immune system and experience new skin changes
What happens during treatment for erysipelas?
A dermatologist usually diagnoses erysipelas based on its typical symptoms: red, tight, warm skin, often along with general illness like fatigue or fever.
It is important to distinguish it from other conditions such as allergies, vein inflammation or cellulitis (a deeper skin infection that is often confused with erysipelas). A blood test or coordination with your general practitioner may be needed.
What happens during treatment for erysipelas?
Early antibiotic treatment is crucial – usually as tablets or, in more serious cases, as an infusion. Additional anti-inflammatory measures like rest, elevating the area, or cooling can help.
If erysipelas returns repeatedly, it can make sense to treat possible underlying causes such as chronic wounds, fungal infections, or lymphatic swelling to prevent new infections.
How does treatment for erysipelas work?
First consultation & examination:
During your first visit, we discuss your symptoms and carefully examine the affected skin. Typical signs like redness, tight skin and fever usually point clearly to erysipelas.
Starting the treatment
Depending on the severity, we begin with antibiotic tablets. We also recommend cooling, elevation and resting the affected area.
Follow-up & monitoring
We track how the infection heals and adjust the treatment if needed. If erysipelas comes back, we also discuss what might trigger it and suggest ways to prevent it — for example, in cases of chronic skin damage.
At Derma Medical Clinic, erysipelas is only treated by experienced board-certified dermatologists:
- Benjamin Miller, dermatologist and vein specialist
- Markus Dendorfer, dermatologist and specialist in pediatric dermatology
Both have many years of experience diagnosing and treating acute bacterial skin infections.
Dr. Benjamin Miller
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
Dr. med. Markus Dendorfer
Board-certified Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology FMH
What to expect from us
Fast evaluation for sudden skin changes
If you suddenly notice skin redness or have a fever, we offer quick appointments to check the cause. This helps prevent serious infections from spreading unnoticed.
Clear diagnosis from dermatology expertise
Erysipelas can be treated well, but it’s easy to confuse with other conditions. We make sure to clearly distinguish it from others — like eczema, allergic reactions, or deeper infections such as cellulitis.
Prevention
If you get erysipelas repeatedly, we check carefully for causes like lymphatic swelling, fungal infections or chronic skin wounds — and treat these too.
Everything in one place
You’ll receive diagnosis, medical treatment and cosmetic care in one place. This means fixed contact persons, short paths, and coordinated care — from first consultation to aftercare.
Do you have suddenly red, painful or swollen skin — maybe along with fever?
Book your appointment now for fast diagnosis and treatment at Derma Medical Clinic in Zurich - Sihlcity.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about erysipelas
What is erysipelas?
Erysipelas – also called Wundrose – is an acute infection of the upper layers of the skin, usually caused by streptococcal bacteria. It typically shows as sudden, clearly defined redness, often with fever and swelling.
What are the symptoms of erysipelas?
Common symptoms include:
- Redness on one side (usually on the leg or face)
- Swelling and warmth
- Pain or burning feeling in the skin
- Fever, chills, general feeling of illness
Is erysipelas contagious?
No. Erysipelas itself is not directly contagious. But the bacteria that cause it (usually streptococci) can be transmitted — infection only happens if they enter through a skin injury.
How is erysipelas treated?
It is treated with antibiotics — as tablets or intravenously, depending on severity. Elevating the area, cooling, and resting the body also help with healing. In severe cases, a hospital stay may be needed.
How long does erysipelas last?
Symptoms usually improve within a few days after starting antibiotics. Redness and swelling may take 1–2 weeks to go away fully.
What causes erysipelas?
Common causes are small skin injuries, cracks (for example between toes), fungal infections or lymphatic swelling. A weakened immune system or chronic diseases like diabetes may increase the risk.
How can I tell the difference between erysipelas and a thrombosis?
Both conditions can cause a swollen, red leg. In erysipelas, the skin is clearly red, warm and usually very painful. Thrombosis normally doesn’t cause fever and the pain is dull. A doctor’s exam is always needed.
Can erysipelas come back?
Yes — especially if the underlying issues like chronic skin damage, athlete’s foot or fluid retention are not addressed. Good skin care, fitting shoes and compression therapy may help avoid recurrence.
What happens if erysipelas is not treated?
If left untreated, erysipelas can spread — even leading to blood poisoning (sepsis) or permanent tissue damage. Early treatment is very important.
When should I see a doctor for suspected erysipelas?
Immediately — especially if you suddenly have reddened skin, fever or swelling. The sooner it’s treated, the lower the risk of complications or relapses.
