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Cellulitis is a skin infection caused by bacteria. The infection extends into the tissues below the outer layer of skin (subcutaneous tissue). It most often develops anywhere the skin has been broke often from a cut, burn, or an insect bite. The infection spreads from the skin to underlying tissues. In severe cases, it can spread quickly, within hours or days. Cellulitis is usually not contagious. What causes cellulitis?Cellulitis is caused by bacteria (usually Streptococcus or Staphylococcus). Some people are at risk for infection by other types of bacteria that result in cellulitis. At-risk groups include people with impaired immune systems and people who handle fish, meat, poultry, or soil without using gloves. What increases my risk of cellulitis?You may be at increased risk for cellulitis if you have: - A cut or injury to the skin, a surgical wound, a skin infection, a burn, or an animal or insect bite.
- Skin lesions, such as ulcers, eczema, psoriasis, or a fungal infection such as athlete's foot. One study found that inflammation caused by toes rubbing together (toe-web intertrigo) is often a cause of cellulitis in the leg, and that treating this skin inflammation could prevent cellulitis.
- Certain medical conditions, such as a circulatory disease, fluid buildup in the body tissues (edema), an impaired immune system, diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or being overweight.
- Impaired lymphatic drainage or blood circulation after surgery, such as after having a breast removed (mastectomy) or having a vein removed from your leg for use in coronary bypass surgery.
- Liposuction, which is a procedure to remove excess fat tissue.
- Injected illegal drugs under your skin.
What are the symptoms of cellulitis?Cellulitis can cause tenderness, pain, swelling, and redness at the site of the infection. Fever and chills are also common. Cellulitis can occur anywhere on the body. In adults, it often occurs on the legs, face, or arms. In children, it commonly develops on the face or around the anus. Facial infection requires immediate medical attention; antibiotics can help prevent a potentially dangerous eye infection. Are there complications of cellulitis?Complications such as bacteremia (presence of bacteria in the blood) or sepsis (body's response to widespread infection) can develop if the bacteria that cause cellulitis spread quickly through the body. Facial cellulitis infection can spread to the brain (meningitis). Other complications, such as thrombophlebitis or, rarely, gangrene, can also develop. If you are an older adult, have certain medical conditions such as diabetes or peripheral arterial disease, or have an impaired immune system, you are more likely to have complications. Your chances of the cellulitis coming back may also be higher. How is cellulitis treated?Antibiotics are the main treatment for cellulitis and are usually successful in curing the infection. Antibiotics can be taken either by mouth or intravenously (IV). If you have certain medical conditions that increase your risk of getting cellulitis, you can take antibiotics after a skin injury to help prevent the infection. 2011-07-19
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