Cellulitis (skin infection)

Description A skin infection us...

Description

A skin infection usually caused by bacteria. Bacteria can enter into the skin through a cut or insect bite and spread to deeper tissues causing an infection. If it is not treated with antibiotics, the infection can spread to the blood or lymph nodes. The most common bacteria are staphylococcus and streptococcus species. A particular staphylococcus species called Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is becoming a more common cause. People with depressed immune systems as with diabetes, cancer, HIV, chronic steroid use, and autoimmune diseases are more likely to develop cellulitis.

Symptoms

The affected skin becomes painful, red, warm to the touch, and swollen. If the surrounding lymph channels become infected red streaks up the arm or leg will be seen. These red streaks are called lymphangitis. Patients may also experience fever and fatigue.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood counts and blood cultures may also be performed.

Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Infectious Disease Medicine, Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine

Treatment

Cleaning and bandaging of any lacerations or abrasions will be done. Removal of the stinger will be performed if the infection is from an insect bite. Antibiotics are routinely recommended for cellulitis and may be administered orally or intravenously, depending on the severity of the infection. Common antibiotics include: cephalexin/Keflex, dicloxacillin/Dynapen, clindamycin/Cleocin, or clarithromycin/Biaxin. If MRSA is suspected the following antibiotics may be used: trimethoprim and sulfamethoxazole/Bactrim, vancomycin/Vancocin, daptomycin/Cubicin, tigecycline/Tygacil, or linezolid/Zyvox.