Cellulitis is a common infection of the skin that can occur anywhere on the body but most frequently affects the lower legs. Potentially serious, this bacterial infection can quickly spread not only on the surface of the skin but may also enter the bloodstream and lymph system. Infected skin is tender and hot to the touch and looks swollen and red. Cellulitis is a skin condition that typically requires medical attention. If left untreated, this infection could even be life threatening.
Types
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection most commonly caused by either Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria. The bacteria may enter the body through small cuts or puncture wounds, athlete's foot, surgical incisions, ulcers or breaks in the skin caused by dermatitis.
Insect Bites
The Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria that cause cellulitis can be transmitted to humans through the bite of certain insects and spiders. Skin that is dry, flaky or swollen can also present an opportunity for bacteria to invade the body. .
Transmission
Cellulitis is not typically thought of as being a contagious disease. It is, however, possible to contract cellulitis from another person if you come into direct contact with an open sore from an infected person. The bacteria would need an entry path into your system through a cut or wound on your body.
Considerations
A number of factors make a person more susceptible to contracting cellulitis. The natural aging process contributes to a diminished circulation system, which may make the ability of white blood cells to detect early infections less effective. People with weakened immune systems or diabetes are at greater risk for cellulitis infections. People with chickenpox or shingles are highly susceptible to cellulitis because of the blistering effect of these diseases present a greater opportunity for bacterial infection of the skin. People with recurring fungal infections of the toe, feet or nails are at an increased risk for cellulitis.
Treatment
Physicians typically treat Streptococci and Staphylococci infections, including cellulitis, with prescription oral antibiotics such as cephalexin. The course of treatment usually lasts from 10 days to 2 weeks. If the patient does not respond to such treatment or exhibits a high fever, hospitalization may be required.
What Causes Cellulitis?. Cellulitis is a common infection of the skin that can occur anywhere on the body but most frequently affects the lower legs. Potentially
What Is Preseptal Cellulitis? | eHow
Preseptal Cellulitis, also called periorbital cellulitis, is a bacterial infection of the eyelid and other soft tissues surrounding the eye. It usually is caused when
What Is Preseptal Cellulitis? | eHow UK
The most common cause of preseptal cellulitis is when infection-causing bacteria enter the site through local trauma, such as a scratch, sty or insect bite.
What is cellulitis in horses? | eHow UK
What is cellulitis in horses?. Cellulitis is the swelling of tissue just beneath a horse's skin that generally occurs as the result of an infection. The condition
What Is Cellulite and What Causes It? - About.com Health
The majority of adult women are affected to some degree by cellulite. However, most people don't really understand what causes cellulite or what it really is.
What Causes Cellulite In The Legs | Cellulite Exercises
What causes cellulitis? | ehow, What causes cellulitis?. cellulitis is a common infection of the skin that can occur anywhere on the body but most frequently affects
What Causes Cellulite | Cellulite Exercises
What causes cellulite and how to win, Revitol cellulite cream. revitol cellulite cream can help reduce the look of cellulite by simply targeting the problem where it
Causes of cellulitis in finger - SeeHow
Looking for causes of cellulitis in finger? Simply read on. Best 10 tips for causes of cellulitis in finger. Discover Now!
What Causes Red Skin On Feet Ankles Ehow | Health Source
The possible causes of red skin on feet and ankles are varied. Diagnosis will depend on whether the redness is also itchy or sore, swollen or hot to the touch, .What
What Causes Recurring Staph Infections Ehow
Unfortunately, Gallery of what causes recurring staph infections ehow has been deleted from our database
