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Cellulitis
Urgent
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection involving the deeper layers of the skin and underlying tissues. It commonly develops when bacteria enter through a break in the skin, such as a wound, cut, burn, bite, or ulcer. The affected area may become red, warm, swollen, painful, and tender, and fever or chills may occur.
Body System
Skin Hair & Nails
When to Seek Medical Attention
Cellulitis requires prompt medical assessment and treatment because infection can spread into deeper tissues or the bloodstream. Seek care for painful, red, warm, swollen skin, especially when the area is expanding or accompanied by fever or chills. Emergency evaluation is needed for rapidly spreading infection, severe illness, confusion, fainting, or other signs of serious systemic infection.
Symptoms
3
Causes
3
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection involving the deeper layers of the skin and underlying tissues. It commonly develops when bacteria enter through a break in the skin, such as a wound, cut, burn, bite, or ulcer. The affected area may become red, warm, swollen, painful, and tender, and fever or chills may occur.
Symptoms 3
Brittle Nails
Fever
Sudden Shortness Of Breath
Causes 3
Cellulitis is most commonly caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species entering the skin through a break in its protective barrier. Entry can occur through cuts, wounds, burns, insect or animal bites, ulcers, surgical wounds, or cracks between the toes. Fungal infections and other conditions that damage the skin can make entry easier.
Infection
Insulin Resistance
Obesity
Risk Factors
Risk of cellulitis increases when the skin barrier is damaged by cuts, wounds, burns, insect or animal bites, surgery, ulcers, or chronic skin conditions. Cracked skin from fungal infections, diabetes, circulation problems, and medicines that suppress the immune system can also increase susceptibility. Previous episodes may increase the chance of recurrence.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Cellulitis is usually diagnosed by examining the affected skin and considering the pattern of redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, and other symptoms. Blood tests or cultures may be used when infection is severe or when identifying the bacteria is important. A sample from an open wound or affected area may sometimes be tested, while imaging is reserved for selected situations.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Cellulitis prevention focuses on protecting the skin and promptly caring for breaks in the skin
Clean cuts, wounds, and scratches with soap and water, keep them covered when appropriate, and watch for signs of infection
Keep skin moisturized to reduce cracking, protect the feet, and manage conditions such as diabetes or fungal foot infections that can damage the skin barrier
Prevention Guidance
Cellulitis prevention focuses on protecting the skin and promptly caring for breaks in the skin. Clean cuts, wounds, and scratches with soap and water, keep them covered when appropriate, and watch for signs of infection. Keep skin moisturized to reduce cracking, protect the feet, and manage conditions such as diabetes or fungal foot infections that can damage the skin barrier.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Protein-rich foods
Supports healing
Vegetables
Support immunity
Fruits
Provide nutrients
Foods to Avoid
Sugary foods
May impair recovery
Processed foods
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A bacterial infection of deeper skin layers.
Redness, swelling, warmth, and pain.
Yes, untreated cellulitis can become serious.
Usually with antibiotics and wound care.
Proper wound care helps prevention.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.