Guide To The Symptoms And Types Of Cellulitis

Perianal Cellulitis

Perianal cellulitis is an infection of the deep skin tissues around the anus and rectum. The most common type of bacteria known to cause the development of perianal cellulitis is the streptococcus bacteria. Most individuals who develop perianal cellulitis have recently had another infection such as nasopharyngitis, strep throat, or impetigo. These infections are spread from the hands to the anal area, where the bacteria find a vulnerability in the skin and colonizes. Children are most often affected by perianal cellulitis due to a lack of proper hygiene practices when they are already ill. A rectal skin culture, throat culture, and rectal swab culture can be used to make a diagnosis of perianal cellulitis. Without treatment, perianal cellulitis can produce complications such as the development of a fistula, abscess, anal scarring, discharge, bleeding, acute glomerulonephritis, necrotizing fasciitis, and a bloodstream infection.

Other Types And Locations

One of the most common parts of the body to become affected by cellulitis is the lower legs. It is also common for cellulitis to affect the arms, head, and neck. In special circumstances, an individual may develop cellulitis in their chest or abdomen. Abdominal skin can develop cellulitis in individuals who are particularly obese. Cellulitis is more likely to develop in the limbs than anywhere else because those parts of the body generally incur more cuts and abrasions that would allow bacteria into the body. Erysipelas is a type of cellulitis caused by the streptococci bacteria that affect the skin. A type of cellulitis referred to as methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) is known to be resistant to numerous antibiotics, which makes it particularly dangerous. Cellulitis can develop on the extremities as the result of a cat or dog scratch due to the Pasteurella multocida bacteria. Cellulitis that develops from exposure in seawater or freshwater is caused by the Vibrio vulnificus, Aeromonas hydrophilia, and other types of bacteria.