Case study diseases

Question 1

What is cellulitis?

Answer 1

Infection of the deep layers of the skin: dermis and subcutaneous fat

Question 2

Which bacteria are likely to cause cellulitis?

Answer 2

Bacteria part of the skin commensals:

• Staph. aureus (90%)
• Streptococci

Question 3

What are the signs/symptoms of cellulitis?

Answer 3

1- rubor
2- dolor
3- calor
4- tumor
5- functio laesa

Question 4

Describe the supportive and specific treatment options for cellulitis?

Answer 4

Supportive:

• analgesics
• anti-pyretics
• fluids
• elevation of affected area to reduce swelling and movement

Specific:
- FLUCLOXACILLIN (active against both S. aureus and Streptococci) - PO 500mg 4x/day for 7 days

Question 5

Why should penicillin not be used to treat cellulitis?

Answer 5

Streptococci are susceptible but S. aureus is resistant as produces beta-lactamase.