According to the Mayo Clinic, cellulitis is an area of skin that has become swollen and red, and is caused by a bacterial infection. The two main culprits that cause cellulitis are streptococcus and staphylococcus. It is possible for the infection to spread to other parts of the body, such as the blood stream or the lymph nodes, causing serious problems. Death would be the result of an infection that is allowed to progress too far. It is most common for the lower legs to be the site of infection, but cellulitis can occur anywhere on the body.
Streptococcus Bacteria
Streptococcus are already on the skin and usually do not pose a threat to a healthy individual. Sometimes, however, when the bacteria are introduced into the skin, the area can become infected. Medline Plus notes that insect bites, animal bites, or bites from a human could introduce the bacteria into the system. It can also be introduced into the system during surgery through an opening in the skin. Another common way for streptococcus to become introduced into the skin is through cracks or peeling between the toes due to fungus such as athletes’ foot. The streptococci bacterium is more easily developed if there are certain factors working against an individual. Individuals who have had previous episodes of cellulitis, are prone to consuming more alcohol, or have suffered from obesity, are more likely to develop cellulitis from the streptococcal bacteria. Although there are several different strands of streptococci that can cause cellulitis, the most common are Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus aureus.
Staphylococcus Bacteria
Staphylococcal bacteria also live on the skin, generally causing no harm. In order for the bacteria to be introduced into the system, there must be a break in the skin. Kids Health states that any type of affliction that can cause an opening in the skin, such as severe eczema or ulcers can allow the bacteria to enter the system. The most common strain of bacteria that causes staphylococcal cellulitis is Staphylococcus aureus. It is possible for cellulitis to be spread from person to person through personal items like clothing, bedding, towels, or anything that touches the person’s body directly. Staphylococcus bacteria are extremely hard to kill, so they can live on surfaces for long periods of time. Sometimes, a more serious form of cellulitis can occur, called Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus-Aureus, or MRSA. This form of staph infection becomes resistant to the typical antibiotics used to treat staph, and can become a severe problem.
Other Bacteria
The Haemophilus influenzae, also known as the H. flu, is a common bacteria that causes cellulitis in children under the age of six. Bacteria from animal scratches or bites, as well as exposure to saltwater and seawater, can also cause cellulitis.
