Effects of Cellulitis in Children

Cellulitis is a skin infection most often caused by trauma or human, animal or insect bites. Once a wound is created, bacteria invade the deep tissue and an infection grows. Antibiotics are required to resolve the infection.

Causes

• The most common cause of cellulitis is the disruption of the surface of healthy skin from scrapes, bites, punctures or illnesses such as chicken pox. Once skin is broken, infections such as streptococcus and staphylococcus assault the skin and cause inflammation and erosion.

Symptoms

• Cellulitis appears as a hot, swollen wound on the body or face. There may be streaks and blisters, tenderness, pain and fever, chills and weakness. Emergency cases include wounds near the child's eyes or ears, numbness or if the wound turns black.

Treatment

• The child's pediatrician may conduct a skin culture to establish the type of bacteria. This is helpful in determining the most effective form of treatment. At home, elevating the inflamed area, warm, moist compresses and rest will speed up the healing process.

Prevention

• Keep the child's hands clean, especially under fingernails. Instruct the child not to scratch at wounds to decrease the chances of infection. Outdoors, keep as much skin covered as possible and use insect repellent, especially after dark.

Long-Term Solutions

• If left untreated, cellulitis can cause meningitis, a serious swelling of the brain and spinal cord, sepsis and an inflammation of the kidneys.