Alternative names

Skin infection - bacterial

Definition

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).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

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 infection and 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/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:

A CBC may show an elevated white blood cell count, and indicates a bacterial infection.

A blood culture may be performed if generalized infection is suspected.

Treatment

Cellulitis treatment may require hospitalization if it is severe enough to warrant intravenous antibiotics and close observation. At other times, oral antibiotics and close outpatient follow-up suffice. 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 aid the body in fighting infection by increasing blood supply to the tissues. Rest until symptoms improve.

Expectations (prognosis)

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 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.