Cellulitis
What Is It?
Acute bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, most commonly due to Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus. Presents with redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness, usually on the lower leg.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Clinical diagnosis. Mark borders with skin marker to track spread. Blood cultures for severe/systemic cases. CBC, CRP, ESR for severity assessment. Consider lower extremity ultrasound to rule out DVT.
How Is It Treated?
Non-purulent cellulitis: cephalexin or dicloxacillin (Staph/Strep coverage). MRSA suspected or purulent: TMP-SMX or doxycycline. Severe/systemic: IV antibiotics, hospitalization.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
CBC, BMP, CRP, ESR, blood cultures (if systemic), lower extremity ultrasound (if DVT concern), wound culture if purulent.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. CBC and CRP: $30-$60. Cephalexin: $10-$25/course. IV antibiotics (if needed): hospital charges.