Erysipelas in Chile: An Epidemiological Analysis of Recent Hospitalizations (2021–2024)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21812094Keywords:
Erisipelas, Dermatology, Hospitalization, ChileAbstract
Introduction: Erysipelas is an acute bacterial infection of the skin and soft tissues that primarily affects the superficial dermis and the superficial lymphatic system. Methods: An observational, descriptive, quantitative study was conducted using data from the Department of Health Statistics and Information and the National Institute of Statistics. A descriptive analysis was performed using crude hospital discharge rates and measures of central tendency, with tables and figures prepared in Excel. Results: The highest crude hospital discharge rate (HDR) was recorded in 2024, with 1.07 per 100,000 inhabitants. Females had the highest mean HDR, and the most affected age group was individuals aged 80 years and older, with 3.08 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The longest mean hospital stay was observed in 2021, averaging 8.42 days. Discussion: The increasing trend in HDR may be associated with the post-pandemic period and population aging. The higher frequency among females may be related to risk factors such as lymphedema, while age-related skin changes in older adults may increase susceptibility to infection. The longer hospital stay observed in 2021 coincided with COVID-19 restrictions, a period during which non-COVID hospital admissions were more likely to involve severe cases or delayed presentations. Conclusion: Erysipelas has shown a progressively increasing hospital discharge rate in Chile, with a greater impact on females and older adults. Hospitalization remains necessary for vulnerable populations. Strengthening early case detection and the management of risk factors in primary healthcare is recommended.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Constanza Cueto Vicencio, Michelle Estefanía Toapanta Pesantes, Isidora Wajner Martínez , Juan José Gutiérrez Acuña, Diosangela Lourdes Montilla Robles (Autor/a)
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