MYTHS ASSOCIATED WITH CELLULITIS
posted: Jan. 27, 2020.
Cellulitis is an inflammation and infection that is associated with the classic description of a "red, hot and swollen area". However, cellulitis is often the term associated with instances like this however, it can be many different things in the leg including erythema or chronic venous insufficiency.
Tests need to be done to rule out cellulitis but also proper examination can help. Bilateral lower extremity swelling is most likely not cellulitis as an infection occurring in both legs at the same time is very unlikely. Erythema is a non-specific example of inflammation and may not always be an infection. Edema is also associated with chronic venous insufficiency and venous stasis dermatitis.
It is important to do a proper examination before telling someone they have cellulitis so proper treatment and management plans can be put in place.
Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News.