Cellulitis: a bacterial skin infectionCellulite is a fairly common bacterial infection of the skin. Cellulite actually means “inflammation of cells.” This infection is usually caused by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria. Cellulitis infection can occur in anyone, but there are certain risk factors and a more susceptible population. Cellulitis is an “opportunistic” infection that occurs through skin lesions. Redness, warmth, swelling and pain are symptoms of this infection. It is essential to consult a doctor for this infection. Cellulitis: a bacterial skin infection 3Cellulitis infection Cellulitis is an acute bacterial infection that spreads from the connective tissue, dermis and subcutaneous layers of the skin (ProQuest 07/2012 p. 5). Characterized by redness, swelling, warmth, tight/shiny skin, and pain. It is sometimes accompanied by fever, swollen lymph nodes, chills and fatigue. Cellulite first appears on slightly inflamed skin that is pink to red in color. The infected area quickly turns a deeper red and increases in size as the infection spreads. Sometimes red streaks can radiate outward due to cellulite. Pus-filled blisters or bumps may also be present (skinsight 12/2012 p. 5). The main culprit is Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria, which can enter through a break in the skin. Normal skin is home to many types of bacteria. Cellulite can occur in anyone. Increased risk factors include: diabetes, cracked or peeling skin between the toes, skin wounds/trauma, chronic lower leg edema, athlete's foot, stings/stings insects or animal or human bites, obesity, corticosteroids or medications that suppress the immune system. poor circulation in the legs (peripheral...... middle of document......tp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001858/Incidence of cellulite in a defined population. ( 2005, September 7. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2870381/Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA (January 19, 2008). Retrieved from http://www.geocaching.com /geocache/GC12ZMQ_staphylococcus-aureus-mrsaHochadel, M. (2014) Mosby's Drug Reference for Health Care Professionals (fourth edition ed.: Elsevier. Cellulitis in adults: condition, treatment and images - Overview | (nd). Cellulite in adults: condition, treatment and images - Overview | skinsight Retrieved January 1, 2012 from http://www.skinsight.com/adult/cellulitis-Print.htmDiagnosis and management of cellulite of the lower extremities/proquest (July 9 2012)/ retrieved from http://search.proquest.com.ezp-02.lirn.net/healthcomplete/printviewfile?account=158514