Cellulitis Flashcards
def
rapidly spreading infection of the skin
what layers of the skin are involved in cellulitis
dermis and subcutaneous tissue
what is erysipelas
form of cellulitis with lymphatic involvement
what distinguishes cellulitis from erysipelas
cellutitis - indistinct borders
erysipelas - distinct borders
where does cellulitis commonly occur
legs
what are the most common pathogens involved in cellulitis
beta-haemolytic streptococci
s aureus
what is the most common cause of non-purulent cellulitis
beta-haemolytic streptococci
what organism can cause cellulitis in patients who are immunosuppressed
pseudomonas
what condition commonly allows entry of pathogens into the skin causing cellulitis
tinea pedis
risk factors
PMHx of cellulitis
ulcer or wound
tinea pedis
features of cellultis
acute onset
commonly in the lower limb, there will be redness, warmth, swelling and pain in affected area
the area will have indistinct borders with macular erythema or distinct borders with raised (papular) erythema in erysipelas
what are the 1st line investigations for cellulitis
1 bloods
-FBC with raised WCC
2 purulent focus culture
-for growth of s aureus
what is the most common cause of purulent cellulitis
s aureus
how is cellulitis managed
beta-lactams (penicillin or cephalosporin)
when are non-beta lactam antibiotics indicated
MRSA or penicillin allergy
