Erysipeloid.

Abstract

Erysipelothrix infections have been a well-known clinical entity for over a century. Only a few cases have been studied histologically, and the agent has rarely been cultured from infected patients. We present here a case of erysipeloid of Rosenbach, in which histologic study and electron microscopy document the presence of microorganisms. We also present a complete review of the clinical and pathologic features of Erysipelothrix infections and their treatment. Our observations suggest that Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae is capable of producing L forms that may revert to a bacterial form and produce sepsis at a later time.