Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae

Background

• Motile Gram-positive bacillus that is catalase-negative and oxidase-negative
  • Pleomorphic
  • Also H₂S positive on TSI
• Classically associated with pig farmers and slaughterhouse workers

Clinical Manifestations

• Causes skin and soft tissue infection with lymphangitic spread following meat exposure (such as butcher)
• Can cause bacteremia and endocarditis

Management

• Intrinsically resistant to vancomycin
• Can treat with penicillin or ampicillin