Cellulitis Complications
Cellulitis is a skin infection caused by bacteria that can cause symptoms such as red, swollen skin that feels hot to the touch. Cellulitis is most commonly found on the legs in adults or on the face in children. Because the infection can spread rapidly, it is important to seek medical treatment as quickly as possible to avoid serious complications.
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Abscesses
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An abscess is a collection of pus in the body, which can resemble a blemish. Also known as a skin boil, these abscesses can be raised above the skin's surface, causing pain and swelling. This condition can require a medical professional to drain and pack the area in order to prevent infection from the boil.
Gangrene
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Gangrene occurs when blood flow is restricted to the body, which results in the death and decay of otherwise healthy tissue. This condition typically occurs in the extremities, such as toes, fingers, legs or arms. The gangrene can spread and require surgery to remove dead tissue should antibiotics prescribed to heal cellulitis not have been effective.
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Thrombophlebitis
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When cellulitis causes poor circulation, most often in the legs, a condition known as thrombophlebitis can occur. This condition causes blood clots to form within a deep vein, and these clots can break off and become lodged in the lungs or heart. Patients who experience cellulitis in the legs should either take blood thinners to prevent clots or wear stockings that encourage circulation.
Necrotizing Fasciitis
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If a cellulitis infection spreads to the deep layers of the skin, which are known as the fascial lining, a flesh-eating virus known as necrotizing fasciitis can occur. This very severe skin infection causes tissue death that can ultimately lead to shock. Necrotizing fasciitis first appears as a reddish spot that quickly develops into a bronze or purple patch that can break open and drain fluid.
Recurrence
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Re-infection of cellulitis, even in the same area where the infection occurred previously, is possible. This can particularly occur in those with lower immune systems due to chronic conditions, such as diabetes, advanced age, fungal infections, lymphedema or other conditions. If you have experienced cellulitis before, it is important to frequently observe previous cellulitis sites for potential signs of reinfection.
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