Cellulitis

Alternative names:

skin infection - bacterial

Symptoms:

• localized skin redness or inflammation that increases in size as the infection spreads
• tight, glossy, "stretched" appearance of the skin
• pain or tenderness of the area
• skin lesion/rash (macule):
  • sudden onset
  • usually with sharp borders
  • rapid growth within the first 24 hours

• no boils, blisters, pustules, or similar lesions
• thin red line (along a vein) from the cellulitis toward the heart (lymphangitis)
• fever
• other signs of infection:
  • chills, shaking
  • warm skin, sweating
  • fatigue
  • muscle aches, pains (myalgias)
  • general ill feeling (malaise)

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

• nausea and vomiting
• joint stiffness caused by swelling of the tissue over the joint
• hair loss at the site of infection

Signs and tests:

A physical examination reveals localized swelling (edema). Occasionally, swollen glands (lymph nodes) can be detected near the cellulitis.

• A CBC will show an elevated WBC, and indicates a bacterial infection.
• A blood culture may be performed if generalized infection is suspected.