Cellulitis is an illness caused by bacteria that affects the skin and subcutaneous tissues. Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria commonly cause cellulitis and other infections. This disease can affect any body part, but it is most common on the legs and face.
Infection can occur when germs infiltrate the body through a cut or other epidermal opening. S. aureus is especially problematic because it is becoming increasingly immune to antibiotics, making treatment more difficult.
Staph cellulitis typically starts as a small are of tenderness, swelling and redness. For some people there is an open sore and other times, there are no obvious breaks in the skin. Cellulitis usually occurs on one side of the body.
The most common causes of cellulitis are:
Bacterial infection: Bacterial infections are the most common cause of cellulitis.
Pre-existing skin condition: Eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections can damage the skin’s protective layer and raise the risk of cellulitis.
Skin injury: Staph bacteria can infiltrate the body through any breach in the skin, such as a cut or scratch and cause an illness.
Intravenous drug use: Using contaminated syringes to inject drugs can spread staph bacteria to the epidermis, causing cellulitis.
Animal attacks: Animal bites from canines or cats can spread Staph bacteria to the skin, resulting in cellulitis.
Surgery: Surgical procedures can increase the risk of developing cellulitis, especially if the incision becomes infected.
Multiple factors increase the risk of cellulitis:
Immune system weakness: Individuals with immune systems that are already compromised, such as cancer, diabetes, or HIV/AIDS patients, are more susceptible to contracting cellulitis. Studies show South Africa’s overall HIV prevalence percentage is 13.1%.
Obesity: Being overweight can place excessive pressure on the skin, making it more susceptible to infection.
Lymphedema: This disease increases the risk of cellulitis by causing swelling in the extremities due to damage to the lymphatic system.
Age: Cellulitis is more common in older people, potentially due to weakened immune systems and other medical conditions.
Gender: Studies show cellulitis is more common in males than women.
Peripheral vascular disease: This condition decreases blood supply to the legs and feet, making it more difficult for the body to battle infections.
Diagnosis of cellulitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection is typically based on physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests to identify the bacteria. Healthcare professionals may order tests, including:
Complications of cellulitis caused by staphylococcus aureus infection can include spreading the infection to other body parts, such as the bloodstream or lymph nodes leading to sepsis. The disease can cause tissue death, organ failure, or limb amputation in rare instances. To avoid complications, seek immediate medical attention if you have cellulitis.
Cellulitis is typically treated with antibiotics to kill the bacteria. Healthcare professionals will determine the antibiotic used by the illness’s severity and other variables, such as allergies or underlying medical conditions. It is critical to complete the entire course of antibiotics to ensure thorough treatment.
Cellulitis prevention entails taking steps to reduce the risk of infection, such as adequately caring for wounds, keeping good hygiene, and not sharing personal items. Furthermore, people with compromised immune systems should take extra measures to avoid staph bacteria exposure.
If you have cellulitis, seek medical attention to prevent the infection from causing complications.