What is Cellulitis? 

Cellulitis is a common infection of the lower layers of skin (dermis) and the subcutaneous tissues (areas underneath the skin) caused by  a bacterial infection. While cellulitis sometimes develops around wounds  in the skin or surgical incisions, in other cases  it arises without an obvious source for  the bacterial infection. Staphylococci are the bacteria that most commonly cause cellulitis, followed by Streptococci. Less commonly, other types of bacteria may cause cellulitis. 

What are the symptoms of cellulitis? 

Cellulitis usually begins as a small  area of pain  and redness  on the skin. This area spreads to surrounding tissues, resulting in the typical signs of inflammation - redness, swelling, warmth,  and pain. A person with  cellulitis can also develop fever and/or swollen lymph nodes in the area of the infection. 

Who is at risk for cellulitis? 

Anyone may develop cellulitis. Males and females and people  of all races are equally likely to become infected. However, people whose immune systems are weakened for any reason (including from chemotherapy for cancer  or other immune-suppressing drugs) and those with diabetes are at highest risk for developing cellulitis. 

Can I catch cellulitis from an infected person? 

No, cellulitis is not contagious because the top layer (epidermis)  of the skin is not involved  and provides a protective cover over the infected area. 

How is cellulitis treated? 

Antibiotics are essential for the treatment of cellulitis. Penicillin derivatives are often prescribed to treat cellulitis, but other antibiotics  can also be effective. In more advanced cases of cellulitis, hospitalization  and administration  of intravenous antibiotics may be required. If not appropriately treated, the bacterial  infection can spread throughout the body, resulting in serious illness.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a skin infection caused by bacteria. Normally, your skin helps protect you from infection. But if you have a cut, sore, or insect bite, bacteria can get into the skin and spread to deeper tissues. If it is not treated with antibiotics, the infection can spread to the blood or lymph nodes. This can be deadly.

Some people can get cellulitis without having a break in the skin. These include older adults and people who have diabetes or a weak immune system. These people are also more likely to develop dangerous problems from cellulitis. And they are more likely to get cellulitis again.