Cellulitis

• Cellulitis most commonly appears on the lower legs, although it may be found on the body or face. It affects the skin surface and can spread to underlying tissues, lymph nodes and the bloodstream. The infection spreads rapidly and can quickly become life threatening.
  
  

Symptoms

• Cellulitis appears as a swollen, red area of skin that may be hot and tender. Small red spots or blisters might appear on the skin.
  
  

Causes

• Cellulitis is caused by the bacteria streptococcus and staphylococcus. The staphylococcus aureus bacteria is also known as MRSA. The bacteria enters an area of broken skin such as a cut, puncture wound, ulcer, dermatitis or athlete's foot.
  
  

Treatment

• Oral or intravenous antibiotics may be prescribed. Hospitalization may be necessary depending on the severity of the infection.
  
  

Prevention

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, patients with these infections should keep lesions and wounds covered with a clean, dry bandage. Hand washing and not sharing personal items are also essential to preventing the spread of this infectious disease.