Cellulitis Flashcards
What is cellulitis
term used to describe an inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissues usually due to either
Streptococcus pyogenes
Staphylococcus aureus
What are some key diagnostic factors of cellulitis
erythema - well defined
pain
swelling
commonly on shins and unilateral
What are some other diagnostic factors of cellulitis
systemic symptoms - fever
What are risk factors
diabetes
venous insufficiency
eczema
previous episodes
What investigations are required
clinical diagnosis
if septic
FBC,ESR,CRP,U&Es
Blood cultures
What classification system is used
Eron classification
How does the classification system work
I- no signs of systemic toxicity and the person has no uncontrolled co-morbidities
II- person either systemically unwell or systemically well but with a comorbidity which may complicate/delay resolution of infection
III- person has significant systemic upset or unstable co-morbidities
IV- person has sepsis syndrome or a severe life threatening infection such as necrotizing fasciitis
When do you admit a patient for antibiotics
has eron class III or IV
severe/rapidly deteriorating cellulitis - for example extensive areas of skin
very young / frail
immunocompromised
significant lymphoedema
facial cellulitis or periorbital cellulitis
What is first line management
Oral flucloxacillin
What are other treatment options
clarithromycin, erythromycin or doxycycline
What is given for severe cellulitis
Any of the following options
IV co-amoxiclav
cefuroxime
clindamycin
ceftriaxone
