The red face: Erysipelas versus, Parvovirus B19, SLE, and Rosacea

ABSTRACT

Background: Several conditions can lead to the red face, including Erysipelas, Erythema infectiosum, Systemic Lupus Erythrematosus, and Rosacea.Objective: To describe a case of facial Erysipelas in a patient and discuss the differential comparison with parvovirus B19, Systemic Lupus Erythrematosus, and Rosacea based mainly on the visual appearance of the rash and associated signs and symptoms.Patient and method: A 50 years old female with a history of breast cancer in remission after lumpectomy and radiation therapy completed three years ago, developed fever to 102 F and painful warm red cheeks and periorbital edema.Results: The patient improved after two days of intravenous penicillin G two million units four times a day; both redness and fever resolved.Conclusion: Although erysipelas of the ipsilateral upper limb, following breast cancer have been described, no reports have been found of facial erysipelas following breast cancer.