Cellulitis (sel-u-LIE-tis) is a spreading skin infection, most commonly of the lower leg. It's caused by bacteria entering through a break in the skin. The affected skin is swollen, painful and warm to the touch.

Understanding the Context

The infection can cause a fever and become very serious, involving deeper tissues. The condition often clears up with antibiotic medicine. The Baltimore Sun: Harvard Health: How long does it take to heal cellulitis on legs? Harvard Health: How long does it take to heal cellulitis on legs?

Key Insights

The New England Journal of Medicine: Compression Therapy to Prevent Recurrent Cellulitis of the Leg Chronic edema of the leg is a risk factor for cellulitis. Daily use of compression garments on the leg has been recommended to prevent the recurrence of cellulitis, but there is limited evidence from ... Chicago Tribune: Harvard Health: How long does it take to heal cellulitis on legs? What is cellulitis? Cellulitis is an infection in the skin caused by bacteria in which the skin becomes red and swollen.

Final Thoughts

It can appear anywhere on the body, but it usually shows up on the legs in ...