Summary about Disease
Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that causes redness, swelling, pain, and warmth in the affected area. It usually affects the lower legs but can occur anywhere on the body. While generally not serious if treated promptly, cellulitis can spread rapidly and lead to severe complications if left untreated.
Symptoms
Redness and swelling of the skin
Pain or tenderness in the affected area
Warmth to the touch
Skin that feels tight or stretched
Fever
Chills
Blisters (in some cases)
Skin dimpling
Swollen lymph nodes
Causes
Cellulitis is caused by bacteria, most commonly Streptococcus and *Staphylococcus*, entering the skin through a break or crack. This break can be a cut, scrape, insect bite, surgical wound, or even athlete's foot. Conditions that weaken the skin barrier (e.g., eczema) or impair circulation (e.g., diabetes, peripheral artery disease) can increase the risk.
Medicine Used
Antibiotics are the primary treatment for cellulitis. Common antibiotics used include:
Cephalexin (Keflex)
Dicloxacillin
Clindamycin
Amoxicillin/clavulanate (Augmentin)
For severe cases or those resistant to oral antibiotics, intravenous antibiotics such as cefazolin or vancomycin may be used.
Is Communicable
Cellulitis itself is not contagious. It is an infection within the body, not a surface infection that can be spread from person to person through casual contact. However, the bacteria that cause cellulitis can be spread; therefore, it's important to cover any open wounds.
Precautions
Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently, especially after touching potentially contaminated surfaces.
Keep wounds clean and covered: Clean any cuts, scrapes, or insect bites immediately with soap and water. Apply an antibiotic ointment and cover with a bandage.
Moisturize skin: Prevent dry, cracked skin by using moisturizers, especially during dry weather.
Inspect feet regularly: People with diabetes or poor circulation should examine their feet daily for any signs of cuts, blisters, or redness.
Treat underlying conditions: Manage conditions like eczema, athlete's foot, and diabetes to reduce the risk of skin breaks and infections.
Avoid sharing personal items: Razors, towels, and other personal items should not be shared.
How long does an outbreak last?
With antibiotic treatment, symptoms typically start to improve within a few days. However, it can take 1-2 weeks for the infection to completely clear. It is crucial to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve.
How is it diagnosed?
Cellulitis is usually diagnosed based on a physical examination of the affected area. The doctor will look for redness, swelling, warmth, and pain. In some cases, blood tests may be ordered to check for elevated white blood cell counts or to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection. A wound culture might be taken if there is drainage.
Timeline of Symptoms
Early: Redness, mild swelling, and tenderness in a small area of skin.
Within 24-72 hours: The redness and swelling spread. Pain increases. Fever and chills may develop. Blisters might appear.
With treatment (after a few days): Redness and swelling begin to decrease. Pain starts to subside. Fever resolves.
Complete resolution (1-2 weeks): All symptoms resolve. Skin returns to normal appearance.
Important Considerations
Prompt treatment is essential: Delays in treatment can lead to serious complications, such as sepsis (blood infection), abscesses, and spread of the infection to deeper tissues or bones.
People with weakened immune systems, diabetes, and poor circulation are at higher risk.
Recurrent cellulitis is possible: Taking preventative measures, such as good hygiene and addressing underlying conditions, can help reduce the risk of future infections.
If symptoms worsen despite treatment or if you develop new symptoms (e.g., numbness, severe pain, pus drainage), seek immediate medical attention.