Cellulitis is a common, but potentially serious, bacterial skin infection that causes a skin rash characterized by areas of swollen red skin that are hot and sensitive to the touch. The infection also may involve the layer of tissue directly under the skin. Cellulitis can occur on any part of the body, although the Mayo Clinic notes that the most commonly affected area is the leg.
Causes
Cellulitis occurs when bacteria enter the body through an area in the skin that is cut or broken. Insect or spider bites can also transmit the bacteria that start the infection in the skin, according to KidsHealth. Persistent scratching, such as with chicken pox, also can cause wounds or open sores on the skin that allow bacteria to enter. The most common types of bacteria that cause a cellulitis rash include streptococcus and staphylococcus, according to the Mayo Clinic. An antibiotic resistant strain of Staphylococcus called methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, causes the most serious form of infection.
Symptoms
In addition to a red rash, cellulitis often causes several other symptoms. Medline Plus notes that the most common are fever, chills, fatigue, malaise, muscle aches and increased sweating. As the infection spreads, redness and inflammation also will spread. Over time, small red spots may appear on top of the red and swollen skin, according to the Mayo Clinic. Occasionally, blisters will form and burst. Other possible, but less common, symptoms include hair loss at the infection site, joint stiffness, nausea and vomiting.
Treatment
Because bacteria causes the infection, treatment of most cases of cellulitis consists of a series of oral antibiotics. Symptoms of the infection may clear up after a few days, but the entire round of antibiotics, usually 14 days' worth, are required for the medication to succeed, according to the Mayo Clinic. In severe cases, or if antibiotics are ineffective, the infection may require hospitalization, during which doctors will administer intravenous fluids and antibiotics.
Possible Complications
Bacteria that cause cellulitis can spread from the skin and underlying tissues to the lymph nodes and bloodstream. When this happens, an infection in the lymph vessels or bone or meningitis may develop, according to MedlinePlus. Sepsis, which is a life-threatening bacterial infection in the blood, also can occur. Repeated cases of cellulitis can damage the lymphatic system, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Prevention
To prevent cellulitis, proper care and cleaning of cuts and open wounds is important. KidsHealth recommends washing the wound, and then applying an antibiotic ointment. Make sure to cover the wound with a bandage or gauze, and avoid scratching, which can spread the infection.
