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Cellulitis is a common but serious bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of the skin and the underlying tissue. It typically appears as a red, swollen, warm, and tender area that spreads rapidly.
read more about cellulitis ...The pathogen is bacteria, most commonly Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species, entering the skin through a break, cut, scrape, or insect bite. The infection then spreads quickly through the tissue beneath the skin's surface.
Symptoms include redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness in the affected skin area. The infection often spreads quickly, causing pain and a firm, stretched appearance of the skin. Fever, chills, and general fatigue can accompany the infection. In some cases, blisters or dimpling of the skin may appear. If left untreated, cellulitis can spread to deeper tissues or the bloodstream, requiring urgent medical treatment.
Diagnosis is usually based on a physical examination of the affected area. Treatment requires prompt medical attention and prescription antibiotics to stop the spread of the bacteria. Hospitalization may be needed for severe infections or if the face is affected.
Cellulitis can be life-threatening if it affects the area around the eye (periorbital cellulitis) or spreads to the orbit (orbital cellulitis). Orbital cellulitis is severe and can cause painful swelling of the eyelid, bulging of the eye, double vision, and can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated immediately.
Cellulitis itself is not contagious from person to person. However, the bacteria causing it can be transferred. Maintaining hygiene and keeping open wounds clean and covered are necessary precautions.
Cellulitis is potentially serious because it can spread rapidly through the bloodstream. Prompt antibiotic treatment is needed.
No, the infection is deep within the skin and requires oral or intravenous antibiotics.
Keeping skin clean, caring for cuts, and managing conditions like diabetes or athlete's foot are necessary preventative measures.
Seek immediate medical care if you notice a red area of skin that is expanding, feels hot to the touch, or if you develop a fever. Cellulitis can lead to sepsis or necrotizing fasciitis if treatment is delayed. Monitor the area for "pitting," which indicates significant tissue edema.
NHS. Cellulitis (nhs.uk). 2024.
Mayo Clinic. Cellulitis Symptoms (mayoclinic.org). 2025.
MedlinePlus. Cellulitis (medlineplus.gov). 2025.
CDC. Streptococcal Cellulitis (cdc.gov). 2025.