Cellulitis Flashcards
1
Q
What is cellulitis?
A
bacterial infection of deeper layers of the dermis (reticular layer) and subcutaneous layer
2
Q
What bacteria often cause cellulitis?
A
- strep. pyogenes (this also causes strep throat, it is an opportunistic aerobe, normally there is a small amount in the URT)
- staph aureus (normal flora in small amount on skin, for some people it is normal in nasal passages)
3
Q
What are risks for cellulits?
A
- compromised skin, ulcers, wounds (this is how bacteria enters)
- elderly (because they have changes to their skin)
- immunocompromised
4
Q
What areas are often affected by cellulitis?
A
- legs
- hands
- pinna
5
Q
What are manifestations of cellulitis?
A
- erythema
- warmth
- edema
- fever
- pain
6
Q
What is the patho of cellulitis?
A
- bacteria enters
- bacteria spreads through the tissue spaces
- infection and inflammation
- may affect the lymphatic system
7
Q
How is cellulitis treated?
A
- mild: oral antibiotics
- severe: IV antibiotics (for 7-14 days)
8
Q
What are complications of cellulitis if it is left untreated?
A
- lymphangitis (inflammation of lymph vessels)
- gangrene
- sepsis
- abscesses
9
Q
What is a problem with cellulitis?
A
it is recurrent (not latent)
