Cellulitis Symptoms

Cellulitis is an acute inflammation of the skin, caused by infection with staph, strep or other fairly common bacteria (see also cellulitis - streptococcal - Erysipelas is a type of cellulitis (skin infection) generally caused by group A streptococci)

Cellulitis Symptoms listed below:

• Localized skin redness or inflammation, increasing in size as infection spreads
• Tight, stretched or glossy skin appearance
• Pain or tenderness of the area
• Skin lesion or rash (macule):
  • Sudden onset
  • Usually with sharp borders
  • Rapid growth within the first 24 hours
• Warmth over the area of redness
• Fever
• Other signs of infection:
  • Chills, shaking
  • Warm skin, sweating
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle aches, pains (myalgias)
  • General ill feeling (malaise)

Additional symptoms that may be associated with cellulitis disease:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Hair loss at the site of infection

Another cause of cellulitis skin infection are tattoo associated infections, defined as a skin infection consistent with staphylococcal infection (i.e. boils, folliculitis and abscess) occurring near or at location of a recent tattoo MRSA.

A secondary cause of tattoo related cellulitis skin infections is classified as a skin infection consistent with staph that occurs in a person who had not received a recent tattoo but has been in close personal contact with a MRSA patient, which MRSA sufferer had received a recent tattoo.

Signs and tests for Cellulitis

During a physical examination, the doctor may find localized swelling. Occasionally, swollen glands (lymph nodes) can be detected near the cellulitis.

Cellulitis tests which may be performed:

• A CBC has an elevated white blood cell count, and indicates a bacterial infection.


• A blood culture may be performed if generalized infection is suspected.