| Cellulitis is an acute inflammation
of the connective tissue of the skin, caused by infection
with staphylococcus, streptococcus or other bacteria (see
also cellulitis -
streptococcal - Erysipelas is a type of cellulitis (skin
infection) generally caused by group A treptococci.)
Causes, incidence and risk factors of Cellulitis
The skin normally has many
types of bacteria living on it, but intact skin is an effective
barrier that keeps these bacteria from entering and growing
within the body. When there is a break in the skin, however,
bacteria can enter the body and grow there, causing a
bacterial skin infection and skin inflammation.
The skin tissues in the infected area become red, hot, irritated and painful.
Cellulitis is most common
on the face and lower legs, although skin on other areas of
the body may sometimes be involved.
Risk factors for cellulitis
include:
Insect bites
and stings, animal bite, or human bite
Injury or trauma with a break in the skin (skin wounds)
History of peripheral
vascular disease
Diabetes-related
or ischemic ulcers
Recent cardiovascular, pulmonary (lung), dental or other
procedures
Use of immunosuppressive or corticosteroid medications
Symptoms
Localized skin redness
or inflammation that increases in size as the infection
spreads
Tight, glossy, "stretched" appearance of the skin
Pain or tenderness of the area
Skin lesion or rash (macule):
- Sudden onset
- Usually with sharp borders
- Rapid growth within the first 24 hours
Warmth over the area of redness
Fever
Other signs of infection:
- Chills, shaking
- Warm skin, sweating
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches,
pains (myalgias)
- General ill feeling (malaise)
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Joint
stiffness caused by swelling of the tissue over the
joint
- Hair loss at the site of infection
Signs and tests
During a physical examination,
the doctor may find localized swelling. Occasionally, swollen glands
(lymph nodes) can be detected near the cellulitis.
Tests that may be used:
Treatment
Cellulitis treatment may require
hospitalization if it is severe enough to warrant intravenous
antibiotics and close observation. At other times, treatment
with oral antibiotics and close outpatient follow-up is enough.
Treatment is focused on control of the infection and prevention
of complications.
Antibiotics are given to control
infection, and analgesics
may be needed to control pain.
Elevate the infected area,
usually higher than the heart, to minimize swelling. Apply
warm, moist compresses to the site to fight infection by increasing
blood supply to the tissues. Rest until symptoms improve.
Expectations
Cure is possible with 7 to
10 days of treatment. Cellulitis may be more severe in people
with chronic diseases and people who are susceptible to infection
(immunosuppressed).
Complications
- Tissue death (gangrene)
- Sepsis,
generalized infection and shock
- Meningitis
(if cellulitis is on the face)
- Lymphangitis
(inflammation of the lymph vessels)
Calling your health care provider
Call your health care provider
if symptoms indicate that cellulitis may be present.
Call your health care provider
if you are being treated for cellulitis and new skin infection symptoms develop,
such as persistent fever, drowsiness, lethargy,
blistering over the cellulitis, or extension of the red streaks.
Prevention
Avoid skin damage by wearing
appropriate protective equipment when participating in work
or sports. Also, clean any breaks in the skin carefully and
watch for redness, pain, drainage, or other signs of infection.
Finally, maintain good general
health and control chronic
medical conditions. A body that is healthy can more easily
fight bacteria before they multiply and cause infection, while
a body that is run down has less protection against infection. |
