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Cellulitis
Alternate Names : Skin Infection - Bacterial
DefinitionCellulitis is an acute inflammation of the connective tissue of the skin, caused by infection with staphylococcus, streptococcus or other bacteria (see also cellulitis - streptococcal).
Pictures & Images
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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:
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Cellulitis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Cellulitis Symptoms & Signs
• Cellulitis Prevention
• Cellulitis Diagnosis & Tests
• Cellulitis Treatment
• Cellulitis Prognosis
• Cellulitis Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Arteriosclerosis of the Extremities
• Diabetes
• Erysipelas
• Immunodeficiency Disorders
• Lymphadenitis and Lymphangitis
• Meningitis
• Sepsis
Tests & Exams
• Blood Culture
• CBC
• WBC Count
Other Topics
• Acute
• Cardiovascular
• Chronic
• Cuts and Puncture Wounds
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Hair Loss
• Insect Bites and Stings
• Joint Pain
• Macule
• Malaise
• Muscle Aches
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Pain Medications
• Rashes
• Sweating - Excessive
• Swelling
• Swollen Glands
• Ulcers
• Vesicles
Review Date : 10/25/2002
Reviewed By : Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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