Causative Organisms of Cellulitis – A Retrospective Study

Abstract

: Background: Cellulitis, especially of the lower limbs is found to be more common now-a-days in both the sexes. Ascending cellulitis was found to pose both short and long term morbidities. Objective and Methodology: The following study carried out is at the general medicine ward of a government hospital where about 90 patients were taken for study with their cellulitis condition. Demographic details and their predisposing causes towards the condition were noted and risk factors were identified. Results: Diabetes, infections due to streptococci, infections from tinea pedis etc, were the main etiological conditions among others contributing to increased cellulitis cases. Risk factors in both ipsilateral and contralateral limbs were recorded and studied upon. Long term morbidity of most of the patients was identified for which a proper follow-up along with serological examination for critical diagnosis could be carried out. Culturing of the wound for identifying the causative organism is a prior issue which would reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. Prophylaxis with Penicillins and its derviatives, both natural and synthetic could be suggested for long term conditions and avoiding recurrent episodes. Common therapy was with Cephalosporin (23), Ciprofloxacin (29) etc. both natural and synthetic penicillins were also found to be given in a good number.Key words: Cellulitis, Limbs, Penicillins, Streptococci, Morbidity.