Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a common infection of the deeper tissues
under the skin that is characterised by
localised pain and a spreading rash.
It is commonly caused by staphylococcus and streptococcus
bacteria which are normally present on the
surface of our skin without causing any harm.
However if there is a break in the skin,
bacteria can enter the body, leading to
infection and inflammation of the deeper
layers (subcutaneous tissues). Any minor injury
such as a graze, insect bite, eczema, ulcers &
surgical wounds can lead to cellulitis. Some
people are more vulnerable especially those with
diabetes, circulatory problems and people with
already compromised immune systems from cancer,
HIV etc.
Any part of the body can be affected, although it is most
commonly seen on the legs and feet.
Cellulitis symptoms:
Cellulitis
usually occurs as the result of a small area of
trauma to the skin, however in some cases, no
break in the skin is observed.
Typical
symptoms of cellulitis include;
-
Well
demarcated,
red, swollen & painful area on the skin &
deeper tissues.
-
Blisters may appear on the skin.
-
Sometimes
the area may
exude a clear or yellow discharge.
-
Fever.
-
Shivering or chills.
-
Swollen lymph nodes close to the affected
area.
Cellulitis treatment:
Most cases of
cellulitis are treated with antibiotics. Your
doctor may take a swab of the affected area to
determine which bacteria are present, which will
help determine what type of antibiotics will
work best.
Complications:
Untreated,
cellulitis can lead to blood infection (septicaemia),
abscess, muscle or bone infections.
Preventing cellulitis:
Sometimes
it's just unavoidable, but if you experience an
injury to the skin such as a cut or insect bite,
clean the area and apply antiseptic.
Also see:
Athletes foot,
Cellulitis,
Cold Sores,
Corns,
Dyshidrotic
Eczema, Eczema,
Flea bites,
Folliculitis,
Impetigo,
Itching,
Jock
Itch,
Molluscum contagiosum,
Nappy rash,
Nummular Eczema,
Prickly Heat,
Psoriasis,
Ringworm,
Rosacea,
Roseola,
Scabies,
Tinea Capatis,
Tinea
Versicolour,
Vitiligo,
Warts
Please note:
The medical
articles on this site have not been written by a
doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a
doctor visit. The articles are provided for
informative purposes only.
Always seek
immediate medical advice for any problems.
While great
care has been made in the creation of these articles, we
cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages.
If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical
advice.
