Cellulitis

Question 1

what is cellulitis?

Answer 1

infection/inflm of the deeper dermis & subcutaneous tissue

Question 2

what is cellulitis due to?

Answer 2

infection inflm d/t bacterial infection:

          - usually B hemolytic strep 
          - Staph Aureus (sometimes causes nosocomal infections, found in low numbers in normal flora in skin, some individuals have low numbers in nasal passages, can get into tissue through incision or wound)

entry via compromised skin (wound, ulcer)

Question 3

where does cellulitis typically present

Answer 3

-legs, and then hands & sometimes pinna of ear

Question 4

does cellulitis spread through subcutaneous tissue?

Answer 4

spreads easily through subcutaneous tissues, as subcutaneous tissue is loosely packed & there is lots of space

Question 5

what are the manifestations of cellulitis

Answer 5

erythema, warmth, edema, pain, fever (local mnfts except fever)

Question 6

Treatment of cellulitis

Answer 6

• mild: oral Abx

- severe: IV Abx (7-14 days)

Question 7

how does bacteria enter to cause cellulitis

Answer 7

entry via compromised skin (wound, ulcer)

Question 8

what are some of the complications of cellulitis?

Answer 8

• recurrence (tendency for recurrence), elderly at risk because compromised defenses, diabetes at higher risk, chronic complication of diabetes is infection
• Lymphangitis (infection of lymphatic vessels-can spread to & affect lymphatic system)
• Gangrene
• Sepsis (sepsis is body’s widespread response to bacteria)