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Cellulitis |
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Definition
Cellulitis
is an acute inflammation of the connective tissue of
the skin, caused by infection with staphylococcus,
streptococcus or other bacteria
Causes
The typical causal agents are two: the gram-positive
bacteria Staphylococcus aureus ("staph") and
Streptococcus ("Strep"). Other bacteria may also cause
Cellulitis, such as the gram-negative Escherichia
coli.
Symptoms
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Localized skin redness or
inflammation that increases in size as the infection
spreads
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Tight, glossy, "stretched"
appearance of the skin
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Pain or tenderness of the area
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Skin lesion or rash (macule):
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Warmth over the area of redness
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Fever
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Other signs of infection:
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this
disease:
Screening and
Diagnostics
Treatment
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Cephalexin (Keflex) or
Dicloxacillin by mouth in typical cases
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Cefazolin intravenously in
severe cases
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Broad Spectrum antibiotics if
gram-negative bacteria is suspected (especially
diabetics)
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
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Tissue death (gangrene)
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Sepsis, generalized infection and
shock
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Meningitis (if cellulitis is on
the face)
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Lymphangitis (inflammation of the
lymph vessels)
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. |
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