Cellulitis is a common skin infection that causes the skin to swell and redden, according to MayoClinic.com. The skin may also feel hot and tender to the touch. Cellulitis is caused by a number of common bacteria and is usually treatable with antibiotics. But if not caught in time, it can spread quickly throughout the body and turn into a life-threatening condition. Anyone can get cellulitis, but certain conditions make the problem more likely.
Skin Injury
Cellulitis often occurs when bacteria get into a break in the skin, according to MayoClinic.com. So any injury to the skin increases the likelihood of developing cellulitis. This can include any cut, even minor ones; fractures; burns; and scrapes. Insect or animal bites can transmit the bacteria, which cause the infection. Intravenous drug use can also be a risk factor.
Chronic Conditions
Some skin diseases cause tiny cuts or cracks in the skin that can raise the risk of cellulitis, according to MayoClinic.com. These include eczema, athlete's foot, chickenpox and shingles. Chronic swelling of the arms and legs, known as lymphedema, can also cause the skin to crack and increase the risk of cellulitis. Obesity and alcoholism have also been linked to an increased risk of cellulitis, according to Skinsight.com.
Impaired Immune Function
Some illnesses weaken the immune system's ability to fight off the common bacteria that can cause cellulitis, according to MayoClinic.com. These conditions include cancer, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, kidney disease, circulation disorders and liver disease. Also, some drugs can inhibit the immune system and increase the risk of this infection. These include steroids and the drugs given to transplant patients to prevent them from rejecting their new organs.
