Cellulitis is an infection of the skin the can spread rapidly; it can also penetrate beneath the skin. Different types of organisms may cause cellulites, and there are several variants of the condition.

What Are The Symptoms of Cellulitis?

The classic symptom of cellulitis is redness, tenderness, and swelling. The legs are most often affected, but the arms and hands are also vulnerable. When the face is affected, it is usually due to a type of cellulites called erysipelas. Your skin may feel warm, and you may experience bruising and blisters. Chills and fever may also be present. The lesions on the skin classically present with sharp borders.

What Causes Cellulitis?

If you have cracks in your skin, such as those between the toes commonly caused by fungal infections, your skin becomes vulnerable to infection by bacteria, such as staphylococci or streptococci. When these bacteria multiply, it becomes cellulitis.

Who Is Likely To Get Cellulitis?

Risk factors for cellulitis may include:

• Cracks or peeling skin between the toes
• Insect bites and stings
• Animal or human bites
• Injury or trauma with a break in the skin
• History of peripheral vascular disease
• Diabetes-related or ischemic ulcers
• Long-term corticosteroid use (corticosteroids thin the skin)
• Immunocompromise or treatment with immunosuppressants

What Does Treatment for Cellulitis Involve?

Antibiotic treatment is extremely important to get rid of the infection.  Generally a broad-spectrum oral antibiotic agent is prescribed. In severe cases, IV antibiotics are indicated. The affected area should be elevated.

What Are The Advantages Of Treatment?

• Pain and infection are relieved. Further complications are avoided

How Long Does It Take?

This depends upon the particular antibiotic chosen and the course of therapy prescribed by your doctor. You should always finish all of the medication prescribed by your physician to avoid the development of resistant organisms.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

One full course of antibiotics should suffice, but you should be alert for any signs of recurrence.

When Will I See Results?

Generally after a couple of days of antibiotic treatment, symptoms will begin to diminish, and the infection should be resolved within 7-10 days.

What Are My Alternatives to Treat Cellulitis?

There are no effective alternatives.

Will I Have Pain?

Cellulitis can be painful; treatment will alleviate the pain as the infection is cured. Sometimes, administration of over-the-counter or prescription analgesics is helpful.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

If the infection is not severe, you may be able to go back to work or school during treatment.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

One of our board-certified dermatologists will prescribe the appropriate treatment.

How Much Does It Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover Cellulitis Treatment?

Insurance should cover this condition and any approved treatments.