This image displays an infant with cellulitis of the scalp. This image displays tense blisters typical of cellulitis. This image displays blisters and redness ascending up the leg typical of cellulitis, a soft tissue bacterial infection. The common features in cellulitis, a skin and soft tissue infection, are redness, warmth, and swelling of the infected skin. This image displays an infant with early cellulitis. This child had redness, swelling, and warmth of the skin of the forehead typical of cellulitis.
Share |

Cellulitis  A parent's guide for infants and babies

Picture of Cellulitis: This image displays an infant with cellulitis of the scalp. Divider line
This image displays an infant with cellulitis of the scalp.
left arrow
right arrow
Overview
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin that can appear as a red, swollen area of skin that may feel warm to the touch. The most common bacteria causing cellulitis include Haemophilus, Staphylococcus, or Streptococcus. While the skin may appear to be intact, there are often very small cracks (fissures) in the skin through which the bacteria enter. The infant may also have a fever or seem fussy.

While the infection may be just on the top skin layer (superficial), it can also affect deeper tissues, involving the muscle, bone, and possibly blood. It is important to recognize cellulitis as early as possible so it can be treated with antibiotics. If left untreated, cellulitis may turn into a life-threatening condition.
Who's At Risk Next:
Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
skinmatters blog, skin health and skin care advice from experts
skin condition finder, over 170 skin conditions and thousands of medical pictures
ask the doctor, skin care questions from visitors, responses from experts