What is cellulitis?

Submitted by Emma Hamilton on Tue, 03/05/2011 - 11:44am

Cellulitis is a common infection of the skin caused by bacteria usually staphylococcus aureus (Staph) or Group A beta haemolytic strepococcus.

What causes cellulitis?

Cellulitis is caused by bacteria which enter the body via broken skin. The infection damages the delicate tissue under the skin causing inflammation and pain.

Older people are at risk of cellulitis as with age the skin becomes frail and prone to damage. Poor circulation, diabetes and pressure ulcers are also common risk factors for cellulitis.

Infection can enter the body via;

Burns, bites, cuts and grazes
Surgical wounds
Pressure ulcers
Dry skin patches, eczema, scabies or boils
Foreign object in the skin

Symptoms of cellulitis

Cellulitis commonly occurs on the lower legs, arms and hands. The infection can spread to other parts of the body.

An infected wound will be painful, hot to touch and have a shiny waxy appearance. The area of skin affected can grow as the infection spreads.

In some cases infection can spread to the bloodstream and make a person feel very ill. Urgent medical treatment and hospital admission is necessary.

Symptoms of cellulitis include;
    •    Redness
    •    Skin that is warm/hot to touch
    •    Skin appears tight and glossy
    •    Discomfort or pain at the affected site
    •    Leaking of fluid or pus
    •    Sweating
    •    Fever
    •    Feeling unwell

Treatment of cellulitis

A doctor will firstly take a wound swab to determine the cause of the infection. Treatment of cellulitis includes a course of oral antibiotics.

Inflammation of the skin should start to ease once antibiotics have been started. In some cases the bacteria can be resistant to antibiotics or the infection can spread.

Treatment of severe cellulitis could involve intravenous antibiotics (via a drip directly into the vein) at home or at the hospital.

Care of cellulitis

It is important when managing cellulitis to avoid further infection. Skin to skin contact should be avoided to stop the spread of the infection.

Keep a close eye on the affected part. Most people respond to antibiotics within a few days. If in any doubt see a doctor and ensure the person has a follow up appointment.

Seek medical attention urgently if the person has a fever (greater than 38.5ºC in adults) is shaking (chills) or vomiting.

If you are caring for someone with cellulitis encourage them to;

Get adequate rest
Elevate the affected body part higher than the heart. This will help relieve any swelling and encourage drainage
Ensure the person takes the full course of antibiotics according to a doctor's orders even if the inflammation subsides
Take painkillers as directed by a doctor for discomfort
Cover the wound with a dressing according to a doctor's instructions
Wash hands regularly (avoid touching the wound and surrounding skin)
Shower daily (clean surfaces with a disinfectant)
Wash linen, towels and clothing separately