Cellulitis
Cellulitis is an infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues that commonly causes redness, warmth, swelling and tenderness. In the lower limb it may occur around a wound, ulcer, skin break, toe-web infection or chronic swelling.
When urgent medical assessment is needed
Seek emergency care immediately for rapidly spreading redness with severe illness, confusion, pain much worse than the visible skin changes, blistering or purple/black skin. These can indicate a serious infection.
New redness, warmth, swelling or a worsening wound needs prompt medical assessment, particularly with diabetes. Do not wait for a routine appointment or a phone/WhatsApp response when emergency signs are present.
Why vascular assessment may matter
Not every episode of cellulitis is primarily a vascular problem. However, recurrent lower-limb cellulitis may coexist with chronic venous disease, lymphedema, diabetic foot wounds or impaired arterial circulation. A vascular review can be helpful when there is persistent swelling, ulceration, recurrent infection, diabetes, poor pulses or concern about tissue perfusion.
Cellulitis, DVT and venous disease
Redness and swelling can have several causes. Cellulitis, DVT, superficial thrombophlebitis, venous congestion and lymphedema can sometimes appear similar. The diagnosis depends on the history and examination, with venous Doppler or other investigations used when clinically indicated.
Treatment principles
Treatment is directed at the infection and its source. Antibiotics are selected according to clinical severity and patient factors, while wounds, abscesses, diabetic-foot problems and underlying edema or venous disease are managed as appropriate. Compression is not automatically appropriate during every acute episode and should be guided by the clinical situation and arterial status.
This page is for patient education and does not replace individual medical assessment.
Book a routine consultation
Consult Dr Siddharth Matad at Siddharth Vascular Clinic, United Hospital, Jayanagar, Bengaluru.
For routine appointments: call +91 97465 53250 or WhatsApp. Contact and location information.
For emergency symptoms, go to the nearest emergency department. Do not wait for a routine appointment or a phone/WhatsApp reply.
General patient information; individual assessment is needed to decide diagnosis and treatment.