An overview of lower limb cellulitis in an acute medical ward-a few lessons we can learn

Abstract

Lower limb cellulitis is a common cause for hospital admissions. In this retrospective study, we assessed the characteristics and outcome of patients admitted in an acute medical unit. The mean duration of treatment was 10.48 days, with 95.5% receiving antibiotics for more than 5 days. Mean length of stay (LOS) was 5.19 days. 12-month readmission rate was higher in patients with diabetes, chronic kidney disease (CKD) and previous stroke. Diabetes, CKD, previous stroke, and elevated procalcitonin levels were independently associated with prolonged admission (>3 days).