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Cellulitis
is an infection caused by bacteria,
which affect skin and deeper soft
tissues. Upon infection,
afflicted areas are usually red,
swollen, and tender. The
infection may also be accompanied by
regionally swollen lymph glands. Cellulitis
can have serious consequences
because of its potential to spread
through the lymphatic system and
into the bloodstream (bacteremia).
Bacteremia, sepsis, and other
complications resulting from the
intial infection require laboratory
tests to determine the appropriate
method of treatment. However,
the development of such underlying complications
are rare, and are often prevented by
proper, and timely antibiotic treatment.
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The lower extremities
(legs and feet) are the most common
sites of infection. Cellulitis
is most commonly caused by the
bacterial microorganism
Streptococcus pyogenes.
Occasionally, the
bacterial microorganism
Staphylococcus aureus causes cellulitis.
Treatments for this form of
bacterial infection are typically less extensive than that
of streptococcus. Staph
infections are, largely, the result
of an open wound or cutaneous abscess. Cellulitis
may also be preceded by a skin
lesion such as an ulceration,
puncture wound, or dermatitis.
Fungal infections, like tinea pedis
(athlete's foot), may also increase
the risk for onset of this
condition.
According to the
Center for Disease Control (1);
The general symptoms
of cellulitis include:
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Red, hot, swollen, and tender
infection area
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The affected skin
surface may resemble the skin of
an orange (peau d'orange)
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Regionally swollen
lymph glands
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Fever and chills
may be present
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May have a history
of skin trauma
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Skin abscesses may
form
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A rare complication
of bacteria invading the
bloodstream (bacteremia)
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Learn More About
Cellulitis |
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