Cellulitis
A bacterial infection of loose connective tissue (particularly subcutaneous tissue). Untreated, the disease may lead to bacteremia, blood infection, or gangrene; facial infections may spread to the eye socket.
Cause
Cellulitis is usually caused by B-hemolytic streptococci bacteria. Very rarely, cellulitis develops after childbirth and may spread to the pelvic organs. Before the development of antibiotics, cellulitis was occasionally fatal. Today any form of cellulitis is likely to be more serious in those with compromised immune systems.
Symptoms
The affected area (usually the face, neck, or legs) is usually hot, tender, and red; other symptoms include fever and chills.
Treatment
Antibiotics (penicillin, erythromycin, or clindamycin) must be taken for up to two weeks to clear the infection.
Tags: B-hemolytic streptococci bacteria, bacterial infection of loose connective tissue, Cellulitis, subcutaneous tissue
Posted in Health and Wellness
