Infectious cellulitis: what is it, what are the causes and treatment –

Those who train frequently know that it’s not uncommon to leave the gym with a superficial scratch or cut, right? Or else, those who run usually have problems with their toenails, which can turn purple, hollow or even bleed due to friction with the shoe. Yes, they seem simple, but you have to treat even the most harmless injuries, you know? That’s because they can infect and generate more serious consequences. As is the case of infectious cellulitis.

Despite the name being the same, it has nothing to do with the classic holes that we know. That’s right. A infectious cellulitis it even starts on the skin, but reaches the layer of fat and causes an infection.

The cause? Bacteria that enter fatty tissue. “In fact, our skin is colonized by various types of bacteria, which form our microbiota. The problem is that when it is weakened or injured, it works as a gateway for pathogenic microorganisms”, explains dermatologist Caio Lamunier, from Hospital das Clínicas in São Paulo and member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD).

Symptoms are redness, pain, heat and swelling at the affected site. And the problem appears more in specific parts of the body. “In fact, there are areas where bacteria are present in greater quantities. And in groin, fold regions, and in the foot. Therefore, they can contaminate mycoses untreated and tend to also attack the lower limbs, which have a different type of circulation”, says dermatologist Damaris Ortolan, member of the SBD.

And although the treatment is relatively simple – generally, infectious cellulitis can be treated with antibiotics – you cannot neglect it. “Otherwise, the local infection can spread, get deeper and even reach other places. The cases can be even more serious in children, the elderly and in immunosuppressed patients”, says Caio Lamunier.

But how to avoid?

According to Damaris Ortolan, the best way to prevent infectious cellulitis is to keep healthy skin. “You have to constantly hydrate it. And take some precautions, such as treating wounds, bruises and mycoses. In addition to being careful where you go shave.”