Factors associated with acute and recurrent erysipelas in a young population: a retrospective of 147 cases

Background: erysipelas is a common infection of the superficial layer of the skin, predominantly caused by groups A β-hemolytic streptococci. It is an acute infection of the skin and frequently affects the legs. It is common in the elderly and favoured by the associated comorbidities. Its occurrence in young healthy people is rare. Aim: The present study aimed to elucidate factors associated with acute and recurrent erysipelas in a young population. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 147 cases of erysipelas admitted to the dermatology department of the Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunisia, over 18 years, identifying factors associated with recurrence. All patients were aged less than 35 years. Results: During the study period, 147 patients were registered with the diagnosis of erysipelas. There were 125 military soldiers and 22 non-military patients. The prevalence of erysipelas was 2.23%. The median age was 25 years. Almost 86.2% of patients were male. The main favorable factors were: obesity (9%), alcoholism (8%), chronic venous insufficiency (6.5%), chronic lymphedema (3%), leg fracture (2%), and diabetes mellitus (1%). The lesions were mostly located in the lower limbs in 94.9%. According to our multivariate analysis, there was an association between recurrence and diabetes mellitus (p=0.02), female sex (p=0.004), onychomycosis (p=0.004), and plantar dyshidrotic eczema (p<0.005). Conclusion: Identifying factors associated with recurrent erysipelas in a young population remains essential for proposing primary and secondary prevention measures.