It is the clinical picture that appears when there is an inflammation of the cellular tissues under the skin (dermis and subcutaneous fat). It is a frequent condition, especially in middle-aged or elderly people.
It is usually caused by a bacterial infection. Often the infection starts in areas with broken or damaged skin: wounds, cuts, burns, etc.
It is characterized by redness, swelling, heat and pain in the affected skin area. It may be accompanied by fever.
Diagnosis is clinical by questioning and examination of the affected area. It may be necessary to take cultures for microbiological study.
In mild cases, it is treated with oral antibiotics, rest and elevation of the affected area. Severe cases may require hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics and/or surgery.
- Larry M Baddour, MD, FIDSA. Cellulitis and erysipelas. UpToDate, Agosto, 2016.
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- Dennis L. Stevens. Infecciones de la piel, músculo y tejidos blandos. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna, 19e. Capítulo 156.
