Celulitis

Question 1

Epidemiology of Cellulitis

Answer 1

exact prevalence is uncertain\relatively common infection,

studies have found a higher incidence of cellulitis in individuals older than 45 years

Question 2

Aetiology

Answer 2

Risk factors include 
skin abnormalities (eg, trauma, ulceration, fungal infection, other skin barrier compromise due to preexisting skin disease), which are common in patients with chronic venous insufficiency or lymphedema. 
Scars from saphenous vein removal for cardiac or vascular surgery are common sites for recurrent cellulitis, especially if tinea pedis is present. Frequently, no predisposing condition or site of entry is evident.

Question 3

Pathogenesis

Answer 3

acute bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue most often caused by streptococci or staphylococci

Question 4

Natural History

Answer 4

infection can spread

Question 5

Clinical Manefestations

Answer 5

typically unilateral; stasis dermatitis closely mimics cellulitis but is usually bilateral.

The major findings are local erythema and tenderness, frequently with lymphangitis and regional lymphadenopathy. The skin is hot, red, and edematous, often with surface appearance resembling the skin of an orange (peau d’orange). The borders are usually indistinct.

Fever, chills, tachycardia, headache, hypotension, and delirium may precede cutaneous findings by several hours, but many patients do not appear ill.

Question 6

Symptoms

Answer 6

pain, rapidly spreading erythema, and edema; fever may occur, and regional lymph nodes may enlarge.

Question 7

Physical signs

Answer 7

Erythema
Pain
Swelling
Warmth

Question 8

Complications

Answer 8

Local abscesses occasionally form, requiring incision and drainage.
Serious but rare complications include severe necrotizing subcutaneous infection and bacteremia with metastatic foci of infection.

Question 9

Prognosis

Answer 9

Most cellulitis resolves quickly with antibiotic therapy