Cellulitis is a common and sometimes painful bacterial skin infection. It may first appear as a red, swollen area that feels hot and tender to the touch. The redness and swelling can spread quickly. It most often affects the skin of the lower legs, although the infection can occur anywhere on your body or face. Cellulitis is usually on the surface of your skin, but it may also affect the tissues underneath.
Cellulitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments, and Pictures
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection in the deeper layers of skin and the fat and soft tissue underneath. There are around Some bacteria are naturally present on the skin and do not usually cause harm. However, if they enter the skin, an infection can result. Bacteria can enter through cuts, grazes, or bites. Cellulitis is not the same as cellulite , a harmless "orange peel" effect that can appear on the upper arms and thighs.
Cellulitis is usually a superficial infection of the skin. But if severe or if left untreated, it can spread into your lymph nodes and bloodstream. Pictured here is mild cellulitis left and severe cellulitis right. Cellulitis sel-u-LIE-tis is a common, potentially serious bacterial skin infection. The affected skin appears swollen and red and is typically painful and warm to the touch.
Skin infections are different from rashes. A rash is an area of swollen or irritated skin. While rashes can be symptoms of some skin infections, a person with a rash does not necessarily have an infection. Some skin infections require medical treatment.