Ref: CHB/Flash/2007/37                                             Date: June 20, 2007

CHB NEWS FLASH

Recently, there has been increased number of Cellulitis cases in our community, many people are not aware of how seriousness this could be and therefore may ignore it, resulting into a prolonged treatment and hospitalization.

Mortality/Morbidity: Cellulitis may progress to serious illness by uncontrolled spread contiguously or via the lymphatic or circulatory systems. It is more common in males and in those aged 45-64 years.

Cellulitis is a potentially serious bacterial infection of skin. Cellulitis appears as a swollen, red area of skin that feels hot and tender, and it may spread rapidly.

Skin on the face or lower legs is most commonly affected by this infection, though cellulitis can occur on any part of the body. Cellulitis may be superficial — affecting only the surface of the skin — but cellulitis may also affect the tissues underlying the skin and can spread to the lymph nodes and bloodstream.

If left untreated, the spreading bacterial infection may rapidly turn into a life-threatening condition. That's why it's important to recognize the signs and symptoms of cellulitis and to seek immediate medical attention if they occur.

Signs and symptoms

Cellulitis may result in skin that is:  Red, Swollen, Tender, Warm. Skins that may crack, Split, or Weep fluid.

The changes in skin may be accompanied by a fever. Over time, the area of redness tends to expand. Small red spots may appear on top of the reddened skin, and less commonly, small blisters may form and burst.

Causes

 Cellulitis occurs when one or more types of bacteria enter through a crack or break in skin. The two most common types of bacteria that cause cellulitis are streptococcus and staphylococcus.

Although cellulitis can occur anywhere in the body, the most common location is the legs, especially near shins and ankles. Disrupted areas of skin, such as where one had recent surgery, cuts, puncture wounds, an ulcer, athlete's foot or dermatitis, serve as the most likely areas for bacteria to enter.

Certain types of insect or spider bites also can transmit the bacteria that start the infection. Areas of dry, flaky skin also can be an entry point for bacteria, as can swollen skin.

When to seek medical advice

If a rash that's red, swollen, tender and warm — and it's expanding — try to see a doctor the same day. If a fever or pain accompanies the rash, or the rash is changing rapidly, seek emergency care. It's important to identify and treat cellulitis early because the condition can cause a serious infection by spreading rapidly throughout the body.

Complications

This reddened skin or rash may signal a deeper, more serious infection of the inner layers of skin. Once below the skin, the bacteria can spread rapidly, entering the lymph nodes and the bloodstream and spreading throughout your body.

In rare cases, the infection can spread to the deep layer of tissue called the fascial lining. Flesh-eating strep, also called necrotizing fasciitis, is an example of a deep-layer infection. It represents an extreme emergency.

Prevention

To help prevent cellulitis and other infections, follow these measures any time you have a skin wound:

·         Wash your wound daily with soap and water gently.

·         Apply an antibiotic cream or ointment.

·         Cover your wound with a bandage.

·         Change bandages often.

·         Watch for signs of infection, like Redness, pain etc.

People with diabetes and those with poor circulation need to take extra precautions to prevent skin wounds and treat any cuts or cracks in the skin promptly. Good skin-care measures include the following:

·         Moisturize skin regularly.

·         Trim fingernails and toenails carefully.

·         Protect your hands and feet.

·         Promptly treat any superficial skin infections, such as athlete's foot

Always consult a doctor who decides on the type of treatment required. One may need to be hospitalized and receive antibiotics intravenously based on condition/circumstance.

“Community’s health – CHB’s priority”