Cellulitis is a contagious bacterial infection of the skin. The affected skin becomes swollen and inflamed, and is usually painful to touch. If left untreated, it can spread to the lymph nodes and bloodstream and become life-threatening.
While cellulitis often affects the feet and lower legs, it can occur anywhere on a person’s body. Cellulitis usually occurs when certain types of bacteria enter the skin through a break in its surface. It can start in skin injuries such as bug bites and cuts.
Other potential sites of entry include:
- Leg ulcers
- Toe web rashes
- Traumatic wounds
- Foreign objects in the skin
Risk factors:
- If you have pre-existing conditions such as leg or arm swelling, or skin conditions such as eczema
- If you have a weakened immune system
- If you have diabetes
- If you have venous insufficiency
- If you are overweight
