Could it be cellulitis? Recognizing a common skin infection

If an area of skin suddenly becomes red, warm, swollen and tender, it usually means there’s an infection brewing below the surface. For many, it may be a common skin condition known as cellulitis—and prompt medical care is the best way to beat it.

“Cellulitis is one of the most frequent skin conditions we treat in the primary care office,” says Dana Bowen, MD, an internal medicine physician at Atlantic Health. “Since this infection can spread quickly, early treatment is critical to preventing serious complications.”

What is cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that affects the deep layer of the skin. Two common bacteria are most responsible for cellulitis—staphylococcus and streptococcus—and they usually live on the skin without ever causing problems. But when these bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin, they can trigger an infection.

Here are a few ways bacteria can get into your skin and lead to cellulitis:

• A cut or scrape
• A fall or injury
• An insect bite
• A dog bite
• Cracked or dry skin
• A surgical wound
• Swelling or chronic skin breakdown

“People can’t always identify what caused the infection, and sometimes it’s hard to find the point of entry,” says Dr. Bowen, “but it commonly develops on the legs or arms, usually appearing red, warm, swollen and tender to the touch.”

How does cellulitis spread and how is it treated?

Bacteria live on our skin, in some body fluids, on our pets and in the environment. When bacteria enter through broken skin—not necessarily from touching someone who has it—cellulitis can develop.

Most cellulitis cases are treated with oral antibiotics. However, they can progress to severe tissue damage and even life-threatening infection that could require hospitalization.

When to see a doctor

If you notice redness, warmth, swelling or tenderness that seems to get worse, have your doctor check it out. People at higher risk, such as those living with chronic leg swelling or a weakened immune system from uncontrolled diabetes, chronic liver disease or active cancer, should be careful not to wait until things get worse.

Going to your primary care physician when you suspect a problem on your face or other body parts is also important. Dr. Bowen says, “Cellulitis on the face or groin spreads quickly and can lead to more serious health complications. If it’s on your face, for example, it could affect your vision.”

She adds, “Cellulitis occurs through skin breakdown, so clean cuts and scrapes promptly, keep wounds covered and moisturize dry or cracked skin. Cellulitis is common and easily treatable when it’s caught early.”