The skin is the first line of defense against infection, it is composed of three layers, the epidermis, the dermis and the subcutaneous tissue layer (see the skin). Infection is the leading cause of death among hospitalized patients with burns. Normally the surface of the skin contains a mixture of microorganisms called normal skin flora, these flora live on the surface of skin and cause no disease unless the skin is damaged and/or the immune system is compromised. (see wound infection)
Cellulitis is an infection of the dermis and the subcutaneous tissue layer of the skin, cellulitis can be caused by normal skin flora or by exogenous bacteria, where in most cases the skin has previously been broken such as:
- Second degree and third degree burns which lead to blister formation that can open and become infected.
- Cracks in the skin.
- Cuts in the skin.
- Sites of intravenous catheter insertion.
- Surgical wounds.
Cellulitis can affect any part of the skin but it commonly affects the skin on the face or the lower legs.
Causes:
The most common bacteria causing cellulitis is Group A Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus, both of them are part of the normal flora of the skin and are harmless when they are on the outer surface of the skin but cause infection when they enter the skin. Group A Streptococcus is found on the skin and the throat while Staphylococcus aureus is found on the skin and the mucosa (lining) of the nose and mouth. Other exogenous bacteria can cause cellulitis and in some cases people get cellulitis without a break in the skin.
Kramer and Pollack, LLP; are VERY well versed in all aspects of representing burn injury victims. They have handled a multitude of burn injury cases ranging from hot water scald burns, to stove tipping cases to explosion cases. They are competent, experienced and very thorough
This information is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice; it should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Call 911 for all medical emergencies.