Cellulitis (cont.)
Is cellulitis contagious?
Cellulitis is not contagious because it is an infection of the
skin's deeper layers (the dermis and subcutaneous tissue), and the
skin's top layer (the epidermis) provides a cover over the infection.
In this regard, cellulitis is different from impetigo, in which there
is a very superficial skin infection that can be contagious.
How is cellulitis diagnosed and treated?
First, it is crucial for the doctor to distinguish whether or not the inflammation is due to an infection. The history and physical exam can provide clues in this regard, as can sometimes an elevated white blood cell count. A culture for bacteria may also be of value, but in many cases of cellulitis, the concentration of bacteria may be low and cultures fail to demonstrate the causative organism.
When it is difficult or impossible to distinguish whether or not the inflammation is due to an infection, doctors sometimes treat with antibiotics just to be sure. If the condition does not respond, it may need to be addressed by different methods dealing with types of inflammation that are not infected. For example, if the inflammation is thought to be due to an autoimmune disorder, treatment may be with a corticosteroid.
Antibiotics, such as derivatives of penicillin or other types of antibiotics that are effective against the responsible bacteria, are used to treat cellulitis. If the bacteria turn out to be resistant to the chosen antibiotics or in patients who are allergic to penicillin, other appropriate antibiotics can be substituted. In many cases, treatment requires the administration of intravenous antibiotics in a hospital setting, since oral antibiotics may not always provide sufficient penetration of the injury to be effective. In certain cases, intravenous antibiotics can be administered at home.
In all cases, physicians choose a treatment based upon many factors, including the location and extent of the infection, the type of bacteria causing the infection, and the overall health status of the patient.
- Cellulitis is a spreading bacterial infection of the skin and tissues beneath the skin.
- Staphylococcus and Streptococcus are the types of bacteria that are usually responsible for cellulitis, although many types of bacteria can cause the condition.
- Sometimes cellulitis appears in areas where the skin has broken open, such as the skin near ulcers or surgical wounds.
- Cellulitis is not contagious.
- Cellulitis is treated with oral or intravenous antibiotics.
REFERENCE:
Humphrey, Isaac P. and Halsey, Eric S. "Cellulitis." eMedicine.com. Sept. 23, 2009 <http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/214222-overview>.
Last Editorial Review: 11/5/2009
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