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Cellulitis is a deep bacterial infection of the skin. The infection usually involves the face, or the arms and legs. It may happen in normal skin, but it usually occurs after some type of trauma causes an opening in your child's skin. This opening can lead to an infection.
Cellulitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection of a wound or area of skin that is no longer intact. The most common bacterial causes of cellulitis include the following:
Other causes may include human or animal bites, or injuries that occur in water.
The following are the most common symptoms of cellulitis. However, each child may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
Some cases of cellulitis are considered an emergency. Consult your child's physician immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms in your child:
The symptoms of cellulitis may resemble other skin conditions. Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.
Diagnosis is usually based on a medical history and physical examination of your child. Blood and skin samples may be taken to confirm the diagnosis and the type of bacteria that is present.
Specific treatment for cellulitis will be determined by your child's physician based on:
Immediate treatment can help prevent the spread of cellulitis. Treatment may include:
Based on the physical examination, your child's physician may treat your child in the hospital depending on the severity of the cellulitis. In the hospital, your child may receive antibiotics and fluids through an intravenous (IV) catheter.
Complications can be reduced with prompt and accurate treatment by your child's physician. The most common complications include the following:
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