Cellulitis Flashcards
What is cellulitis?
A bacterial infection of the dermis and deeper subcutaneous tissue
What does cellulitis require for entry?
A breach in the skin barrier and point of entry for bacteria
What are risk factors for cellulitis?
- Age
- Immunocompromised-Diabetes
- Predisposing skin condition e.g. ulcers, pressure sores, trauma, lymphoedema
What are possible causes of cellulitis?
- Streptococcus pyogenes-main cause
- Staphylococcus aureus
How can cellulitis present?
- Unilateral leg symptoms
- Hot, Red, Swollen, Painful
- Poorly demarcated margins
- Lymphadenopathy
How is cellulitis diagnosed?
- Clinical history and examination
* Swab the wound
What would a yellow crust suggest?
Yellow crust suggests staph aureus infection
What is the classification for cellulitis?
Eron classification
What is class 1 of the Eron classification?
No systemic toxicity or uncontrolled comorbidity
What is class 2 of the Eron classification?
Systemic toxicity or comorbidity
(systemically unwell or systemically well but with a co-morbidity
What is class 3 of the Eron classification?
Significant systemic toxicity and comorbidity
(confusion, tachycardia, tachypnoea, hypotension, or unstable co-morbidities that may interfere with a response to treatment, or a limb-threatening infection due to vascular compromise)
What is class 4 of the Eron classification?
Sepsis syndrome or severe life threatening infection (necrotizing fasciitis)
What are possible complications of cellulitis?
- Abscess
- Sepsis
- Necrotising Fasciitis
What is the management of Eron class 1 cellulitis?
Flucloxicillin
What is the management of cellulitis if near the nose or mouth?
Co-amoxiclav
