Cellulitis

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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

The skin normally has many types of bacteria living on it, but intact skin is an effective barrier that keeps these bacteria from entering and growing within the body. When there is a break in the skin, however, bacteria can enter the body and grow there, causing infection and inflammation. The skin tissues in the infected area become red, hot, irritated and painful.

Cellulitis is most common on the face and lower legs, although skin on other areas of the body may sometimes be involved.

Risk factors for cellulitis include:

• Insect bites and stings; animal bite or human bite
• Injury or trauma with a break in the skin (skin wounds)
• History of peripheral vascular disease
• Diabetes-related or ischemic ulcers
• Recent cardiovascular, pulmonary (lung), dental or other procedures
• Use of immunosuppressive or corticosteroid medications