Diagnóstico e Tratamento de Erisipela e Celulite: Revisão das Melhores Práticas Clínicas e Desafios Terapêuticos

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to review and synthesize current knowledge on the diagnosis and treatment of erysipelas and cellulitis, highlighting the differences between these infections and evaluating best clinical practices. Methodology: A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed database using specific terms related to erysipelas, cellulitis, diagnosis, and treatment. Of the 200 articles initially found, 10 studies were selected after applying rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Differentiating between erysipelas and cellulitis is essential due to their distinct etiologies. Laboratory parameters such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell counts proved effective in differential diagnosis. The practice of blood cultures in elderly patients with cellulitis revealed a high rate of bacteremia, justifying its use in certain cases. In treatment, the review did not find a clear superiority of any specific antibiotic, suggesting that targeted antibiotics are generally effective. Additionally, factors such as tinea pedis and anemia were observed to prolong hospitalization, and the recurrence of erysipelas was associated with factors such as lymphedema and obesity. Conclusions: Clinical practice should consider the judicious use of antibiotics and the need for preventive management in patients at risk of recurrence, thereby improving prognosis and quality of life for affected patients.