What are the complications of cellulitis?
Complications of cellulitis can be very serious. These can include extensive tissue damage and tissue death (gangrene). The infection can also spread to the blood, bones, lymph system, heart, or nervous system. These infections can lead to amputation, shock, or even death.
How do you confirm cellulitis?
Cellulitis can usually be diagnosed from its characteristic appearance. Blood tests and tissue cultures may be used to confirm the presence of bacterial infection. In cases of orbital cellulitis, a CT scan (computerised tomography) may be recommended in order to precisely identify the extent of the infection.
What are the stages of cellulitis?
Cellulitis Healing Stages
- Reduced pain.
- Less firmness around the infection.
- Decreased swelling.
- Diminished redness.
Who is most at risk for cellulitis?
Children and the elderly typically have weaker immune systems and thus are at greater risk of cellulitis than young and middle-aged adults. An autoimmune disease — such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis — can also weaken the immune system.
Which antibiotic is best for cellulitis?
The best antibiotic to treat cellulitis include dicloxacillin, cephalexin, trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole, clindamycin, or doxycycline antibiotics.
What is the best antibiotic for cellulitis?
Normal skin can develop cellulitis, but it usually occurs when bacteria enters an open wound. The best antibiotic to treat cellulitis include dicloxacillin, cephalexin, trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole, clindamycin, or doxycycline antibiotics.
What is first line treatment for cellulitis?
Therefore, the principal antibiotics recommended for treating cellulitis are first-generation cephalosporins, such as cefazolin, and penicillinase-resistant penicillin, such as nafcillin, which are effective against S. aureus and streptococci [3,4].
How long does it take for cellulitis to clear up?
With treatment, a small patch of cellulitis in a healthy person can resolve in 5 days or so. The more severe the cellulitis and the more medical problems the person has, the longer it can take to resolve. Very severe cellulitis may last 2 weeks or more, even with treatment in the hospital.
What is cellulitis of the skin?
Cellulitis (sel-u-LIE-tis) is a common, potentially serious bacterial skin infection. The affected skin appears swollen and red and is typically painful and warm to the touch. Cellulitis usually affects the skin on the lower legs, but it can occur in the face, arms and other areas.
How does cellulitis affect the legs?
Cellulitis frequently affects the legs. Cellulitis is not contagious. Complications of severe cellulitis include the spread of the infection from the affected area into the bloodstream or to other body tissues. Cellulitis is treated with oral or intravenous antibiotics. Cellulitis usually begins as a small area of pain and redness on the skin.
What happens if cellulitis is not treated?
Cellulitis usually causes redness, swelling, and tenderness. Good hygiene and skin care can help prevent cellulitis. Watch any breaks in the skin for signs of infection. Untreated cellulitis can lead to amputation, shock, and even death.
What are the treatment options for cellulitis?
If your cellulitis recurs, your doctor may recommend preventive antibiotics. To help prevent cellulitis and other infections, take these precautions when you have a skin wound: Wash your wound daily with soap and water. Do this gently as part of your normal bathing.