Cellulitis Flashcards
what is cellulitis?
infection/inflm of the deeper dermis & subcutaneous tissue
what is cellulitis due to?
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)
where does cellulitis typically present
-legs, and then hands & sometimes pinna of ear
does cellulitis spread through subcutaneous tissue?
spreads easily through subcutaneous tissues, as subcutaneous tissue is loosely packed & there is lots of space
what are the manifestations of cellulitis
erythema, warmth, edema, pain, fever (local mnfts except fever)
Treatment of cellulitis
- mild: oral Abx
- severe: IV Abx (7-14 days)
how does bacteria enter to cause cellulitis
entry via compromised skin (wound, ulcer)
what are some of the complications of cellulitis?
- 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)