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Cellulitis

Cellulitis Treatment in Delhi, India

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Overview

Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that causes discomfort, swelling, and redness in the affected area of the skin. It may only look like a swollen, discoloured spot that is hot and painful to the touch. The swelling and discolouration can swiftly spread.

Cellulitis generally appears red or pink on lighter skin tones. It could look dark brown, grey, or purple on those with darker skin tones. It can occur anywhere on a person's body or face, but it affects the feet and lower legs in most cases. If left untreated, it might spread and lead to major health problems.

Types of Cellulitis

There are four types of cellulitis depending on the region they develop. They are as follows: 

  • Periorbital cellulitis: This type of cellulitis develops around the eyes.

  • Breast cellulitis: This develops near and on the breasts.

  • Perianal cellulitis: This kind of cellulitis occurs around the anal region.

  • Facial cellulitis: This occurs around the facial area like the eyes, nose, and cheeks

Cellulitis Symptoms

The most common symptoms of cellulitis are as follows:

  • Tenderness and soreness in the affected region

  • Skin redness or inflammation

  • Rash or skin irritation that spreads rapidly

  • Swollen and tight skin

  • Pus or blisters

  • Chills and fatigue

  • Uneasiness

  • Dizziness

  • Fever or shaking

  • Lightheadedness

  • Aching muscles

  • Heated skin sweating

Cellulitis Causes

Cellulitis develops when germs enter the skin through a break in the skin. Cellulitis is frequently caused by Staphylococcus and Streptococcus (strep) bacteria.

Cellulitis can develop from skin injuries such as:

  • Cuts

  • Open wounds

  • Dermatitis

  • Dry, cracked, flaky, or swollen skin

  • Insect bite

  • Surgical wound

  • Ulcers

  • Athlete's foot

Cellulitis Diagnosis

To examine the cellulitis, the doctor will conduct a physical examination and enquire about persistent symptoms. In most cases, blood or other lab tests are not required.

  • Physical examination: During a physical examination, doctors can identify cellulitis by examining the infected skin.

  • Blood test: In this test, a blood sample is collected and checked in a laboratory for bacteria and to examine if the infection has spread to the blood.

  • Skin test: A skin test examines the skin and the type of bacteria that causes cellulitis. This helps the doctor to prescribe a suitable antibiotic. 

Cellulitis Treatment

Cellulitis is commonly treated with medications or antibiotics.

  • Oral antibiotics: Most cellulitis infections are treated with oral antibiotics.

  • Intravenous (IV) antibiotics: Antibiotics administered intravenously (IV) are used to treat more severe cellulitis. This treatment is used when the patient doesn't respond well to oral antibiotics.


Depending on the spread of cellulitis, the doctor may suggest dressings on the infected area and pain medications to relieve the pain.

Cellulitis Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of cellulitis. For instance, someone with a skin problem like eczema or athlete's foot is more prone to cellulitis.

  • Injury: Injuries such as cut, fracture, burn, or scrape allows bacteria to enter the body.

  • Immune system weakness: Diseases like diabetes, HIV/AIDS, and leukaemia affect the immune system and make people more prone to infection. Certain drugs might also damage the immune system.

  • Lymphedema: This disorder causes persistent swelling in the arms or legs. Mostly, it occurs after surgery.

  • Skin conditions: Disorders including atopic dermatitis (eczema), athlete's foot, and shingles can lead to cracks in the skin, which allows germs to enter the body.

Cellulitis Complications

Skin and underlying tissues are both impacted by cellulitis. The lymph nodes and bloodstream may be infected. It may also spread to the muscles and bones of the body.

Cellulitis complications are rare; however, they can lead to severe infections:

  • Blood infection

  • Suppurative arthritis

  • Osteomyelitis (bone infection)

  • Endocarditis (swelling of the inner lining of the chambers of the heart and heart valves)

  • Thrombophlebitis (swelling in a vein due to a blood clot).

Cellulitis Prevention

Cleanse the skin as soon as a cut occurs, then apply antibiotic ointment. Until the wound is completely healed, wrap it and apply ointment. Replace the bandage every day.

Check wounds frequently for swelling, discharge, or discomfort. These could lead to an infection.

If a person has poor circulation or any condition that raises their risk of cellulitis, they must take the following precautions:

  • Moisturise the skin daily

  • Treat skin problems that lead to skin cracks right away, such as athlete's foot.

  • When working or doing sports, put on safety gear.

  • Check feet every day for symptoms of damage or illness.

  • Wash the wound daily

  • Apply ointment or antiseptic cream and cover the wound with a bandage

  • Drink water to stay hydrated

Prognosis or Outlook for Patients

Cellulitis can be avoided with proper wound care and hygiene. Early diagnosis and treatment ensure complete recovery. Most people recover within 7- days. If left untreated, cellulitis can cause severe complications that can be fatal.

Reviewed & Updated On

Reviewed by Dr. Ajita Bagai Kakkar, Associate Director - Dermatology, Lasers and Aesthetic Medicines, Dermatology on 25-May-2023.


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