Health condition · plain-language reference

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is an infection of the skin and deep underlying tissues. Group A strep ( streptococcal ) bacteria are the most common cause. The bacteria enter your body when you get an injury such as a bruise, burn, surgical cut, or wound. Symptoms include: Fever and chills Swollen glands or lymph nodes A rash with painful, red, tender skin. The skin may blister and scab over. Your health care provider may take a sample or culture from your skin or do a blood test to identify the bacteria causing infection. Treatment is with antibiotics. They may be oral in mild cases, or intravenous (by IV) for more severe cases.

Plain-language summary from MedlinePlus (NIH/NLM) ↗. For informational purposes only — not medical advice.