Cellulitis

Alternative names:

skin infection - bacterial

Definition:

An acute noncontagious inflammation of the connective tissue of the skin, resulting from staphylococcus, streptococcus, or other bacterial infection (see also cellulitis - streptococcal).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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

Cellulitis is most common on the face and lower legs although skin on other areas of the body may be involved.

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 mellitus, or ischemic ulcers; recent cardiovascular, pulmonary (lung), dental, or other procedures; and use of immunosuppressive or corticosteroid medications.