Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deep layer of skin (dermis) and the layer of fat and soft tissues (the subcutaneous tissues) that lie underneath the skin. The infection can make your skin red, swollen and painful.

Cellulitis is not the same as cellulite. Cellulite is a cosmetic problem that is caused by fatty deposits that form under the skin, and it has no relation to cellulitis.

Bacteria and the skin

Several different types of bacteria live on the surface of the skin. Usually, bacteria does not cause any harm to the body, but if it passes deeper into the skin, it can cause infection.

Bacteria often enter the body through a damaged or broken area of skin, such as a cut, graze or bite. Also, if you have a skin condition, such as eczema, your risk of bacteria entering your skin is increased.

Once bacteria are inside the skin, they start to produce substances that break down the natural barriers that normally prevent bacteria from spreading into the deeper tissue. This enables infection and inflammation to spread.

Cellulitis is a common condition, and most cases can be effectively treated using antibiotics. However, in more serious cases, hospital treatment may be required.

Glossary

Tissues
Body tissue is made up of groups of cells that perform a specific job, such as protecting the body against infection, producing movement or storing fat.

Bacteria
Bacteria are tiny, single-celled organisms that live in the body. Some can cause illness and disease and some others are good for you.

Inflammation
Inflammation is the body's response to infection, irritation or injury, which causes redness, swelling, pain and sometimes a feeling of heat in the affected area.

Antibiotics
Antibiotics are medicines that can be used to treat infections caused by micro-organisms, usually bacteria or fungi. For example amoxicillin, streptomycin and erythromycin.