Cellulitis

Question 1

What is cellulitis?

Answer 1

An acute bacterial infection of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, most often caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus.

Question 2

Name common symptoms of cellulitis.

Answer 2

Pain, warmth, swelling, erythema, blisters, fever, malaise, nausea, rigors.

Question 3

Name complications of cellulitis.

Answer 3

Necrotizing fasciitis, sepsis, persistent leg ulceration, recurrent cellulitis.

Question 4

Name some underlying conditions to manage to prevent cellulitis recurrence.

Answer 4

Diabetes, eczema, venous insufficiency, tinea pedis, lymphoedema.

Question 5

What is the first-line antibiotic for uncomplicated adult cellulitis?

Answer 5

Flucloxacillin 500–1000 mg QDS for 5–7 days.

Question 6

What are alternatives for adults allergic to penicillin?

Answer 6

Clarithromycin, doxycycline, or erythromycin (in pregnancy).

Question 7

What is recommended for cellulitis near the eyes or nose?

Answer 7

Co-amoxiclav 500/125 mg TDS for 7 days; if allergic to penicillin, clarithromycin + metronidazole.

Question 8

What is the recommended duration of antibiotics for lymphoedema-associated cellulitis?

Answer 8

14 days.

Question 9

What is the first-line antibiotic for children with cellulitis?

Answer 9

Flucloxacillin (dose based on age/weight) for 5–7 days.