Cellulitis

Definition

Cellulitis is an acute inflammation of the connective tissue of the skin, caused by infection with staphylococcus, streptococcus or other bacteria (see also Erysipelas).

Alternative Names

Causes

The skin normally has many types of bacteria living on it, but intact skin is an effective barrier that keeps these bacteria from entering and growing within the body. When there is a break in the skin, however, bacteria can enter the body and grow there, causing infection and inflammation. The skin tissues in the infected area become red, hot, irritated and painful.

Cellulitis is most common on the lower legs and the arms or hands, although other areas of the body may sometimes be involved. If it involves the face (erysipelas), medical attention is urgent. People with fungal infections of the feet, who have skin cracks in the webspaces between the toes, may have cellulitis that keeps coming back, because the cracks in the skin offer an opening for bacteria.

Risk factors for cellulitis include:

• Insect bites and stings, animal bite, or human bite
• Injury or trauma with a break in the skin (skin wounds)
• History of peripheral vascular disease
• Diabetes -related or ischemic ulcers
• Cracks or peeling skin between the toes
• Use of immunosuppressive or corticosteroid medications