10 cellulitis facts
In this article we will describe 10 facts aboiut cellulitis.
Key Points
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Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that requires prompt treatment.
- In acute cellulitis, there is a rapid onset of symptoms, usually caused by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria.
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It can affect anyone, but certain groups are at higher risk.
- Antibiotics are required.
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Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.
1. Definition
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. It is characterized by redness, swelling, and warmth of the affected area.
There are several types of cellulitis, including:
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Acute cellulitis: A sudden onset of symptoms, usually caused by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria.
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Chronic cellulitis: Recurring or persistent symptoms, often seen in people with underlying medical conditions.
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Erysipelas: A type of cellulitis that affects the upper dermis and is characterized by a well-defined, raised border.
2. Epidemiology
Cellulitis is a common condition, with an estimated incidence of 199.6 per 100,000 person-years in the UK. It can affect anyone, but is more common in older adults and those with certain underlying medical conditions.
3. Risk Factors
Certain groups are at higher risk of developing cellulitis, including:
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Older adults
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People with diabetes
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Those with weakened immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy)
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Individuals with poor circulation or swelling in their legs
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People with skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis)
4. Causes
Cellulitis is usually caused by bacterial infection, with Streptococcus and Staphylococcus being the most common culprits. The bacteria can enter the skin through cuts, scrapes, or other breaks in the skin.
5. Symptoms
The symptoms of cellulitis can vary, but typically include:
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Redness and swelling of the affected area
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Warmth or tenderness to the touch
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Pain or discomfort
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Fever or chills
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Swollen regional lymph nodes.
6. Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually based on clinical presentation and medical history. A physical examination will typically reveal the characteristic signs of cellulitis.
Investigation
Mild cellulitis may require no further investigation. It can be treated with oral antibiotics by your GP.
Further investigations may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. These may include:
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Blood tests to check for signs of infection or inflammation
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Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, MRI) to assess the extent of the infection
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Skin swabs or biopsies to identify the causative bacteria
Differential Diagnosis
Other conditions that may present similarly to cellulitis include:
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Erysipelas: A type of cellulitis with a well-defined, raised border.
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Abscess: A pocket of pus that forms in response to infection.
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Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the leg.
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Lymphoedema: Swelling of the leg due to impaired lymphatic drainage.
7. Treatment
Treatment for cellulitis typically involves antibiotics to combat the underlying bacterial infection. The choice of antibiotic will depend on the severity of the infection and the suspected causative bacteria.
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Mild cases: Oral antibiotics (e.g., flucloxacillin, clarithromycin) may be sufficient.
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Severe cases: Intravenous antibiotics (e.g., benzylpenicillin, ceftriaxone) may be necessary.
In addition to antibiotics, treatment may also involve:
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Pain management: Analgesics (e.g., paracetamol, ibuprofen) to manage pain and discomfort.
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Wound care: Cleaning and dressing the affected area to promote healing.
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Elevation: Elevating the affected limb to reduce swelling.
When to See a Doctor
If you suspect you or a patient has cellulitis, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Seek immediate attention if:
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Symptoms are severe or worsening
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You have a weakened immune system
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You have a history of recurrent cellulitis
8. Complications
If left untreated or inadequately treated, cellulitis can lead to serious complications, including:
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Abscess formation: A pocket of pus that forms in response to infection.
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Sepsis: A life-threatening condition that occurs when the infection spreads to the bloodstream.
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Gangrene: Death of tissue due to inadequate blood supply.
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Scarring: Permanent scarring of the affected area.
- Mortality: In the frail elderly, it can be very serious.
9. Prognosis
With prompt and effective treatment, most people with cellulitis can make a full recovery. However, recurrent infections can occur, and some people may experience persistent symptoms or complications.
10. Prevention
To reduce the risk of developing cellulitis, it is essential to:
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Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly, especially after touching the affected area.
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Keep skin clean and dry: Clean.
Summary
We have described 10 facts about cellulitis. We hope it has been helpful.