Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that usually shows up as a red, swollen spot on an area of the skin. It is caused by the introduction of the bacteria staphylococcus or streptococcus. Any opening in the skin, such as a cut, scrape, bite, or crack, can introduce these bacteria into the bloodstream. The most common spot for cellulitis to appear is on the lower legs, but it can affect any part of the body. The area that is affected will be warm and tender to the touch, and the cellulitis could begin to spread quickly if left untreated.
Recurrent Cellulitis
Recurrent cellulitis is the term used when a person has more than one occurrence of cellulitis. These infections do not necessarily recur in the same part of the body. There are some people who are more at risk to suffer from recurrent cellulitis infections, including those with chronic skin conditions, poor circulation, or a weak immune systems. MedlinePlus states that individuals who have fungal infections of the feet are more likely to have recurrent cellulitis infections.
Chronic Swelling
When a person has suffered several instances of cellulitis, it is more likely for his lymphatic system to become damaged. The drainage system of the lymph nodes will no longer be able to drain the lymph nodes quickly enough, causing the nodes to swell more often than they should, and to stay swollen longer than they should. This can cause chronic swelling in areas of the body such as the underarms, groin and neck.
Gangrene
Gangrene is a condition that occurs when the blood flow is cut off to a certain part of the body and the tissue begins to decay. The most common place for gangrene to occur is the arms, legs, feet and hands. It is also possible for gangrene to spread to the internal organs. Gangrene is treated is by the removal of dead tissue, and antibiotics to prevent more tissue death. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that gangrene can result in loss of a limb.
Thrombophlebitis
Thrombophlebitis occurs when an area of a blood vessel is blocked by a blood clot or other obstruction, resulting in the swelling of a limb. When cellulitis infection is large enough, it can press on a blood vessel and cause thromboplebitis.
Loss of Flesh
The only time there is a severe loss of flesh is when the streptococci cause necrotizing fasciitis, which is a flesh-eating disease.
