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| Standard Definition |
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Cellulitis is an inflammation of the skin and the connective tissue beneath the skin, caused by a bacterial infection. Cellulitis most often affects the legs, but it may also affect the arms, face, and scalp. Generally, cellulitis is cured with antibiotics; however, the condition sometimes leads to serious complications. Immediately seek the advice of your healthcare practitioner if you think you may have this condition. |
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| Underlying Disruption in Function |
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Cellulitis is caused by a bacterial infection, most often by group A streptococci and Staphylococcus aureus. In many cases, it is preceded by some kind of skin injury (eg. cuts, insect bites, trauma, burns, surgical cuts, intravenous catheters, dermatitis) or respiratory infection. Infections are more likely in conditions of lowered immune function or first line 'resistance'. Dietary and lifestyle practices and natural remedies to maintain a strong immune system will help prevent this condition. |
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| Possible Causes, Triggers & Exacerbating Factors |
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- Chronic illness, generalised infection, poor immune function
- Diabetes
- Peripheral vascular disease (causing poor blood flow to the tissue), vein surgery
- Malnutrition
- Contaminated wounds, animal bites
- Respiratory infection - sinusitis, otitis media, or epiglottitis, especially in children
- Lymphoedema (accumulation of lymph fluid in the body's tissues) from surgery, radiation therapy, or cancer that has spread to lymph nodes
- Fish and meat handling
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| Common Signs & Symptoms |
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- Pain and tenderness
- Oedema (swelling caused by lymph fluid in the tissues)
- Redness and heat in the skin
- Fever, chills
- Skin ulcers
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| Possible Additional Integrative Medicine Diagnostic Tests |
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(This is additional information that does not replace nor negate conventional diagnosis. Other tests may be useful depending on the individual circumstance.)
- Vitamin and Mineral assessment
- Allergy and food intolerance testing
- Biochemical assessments
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