Cause of Cellulitis (Cont.)

Cause of Cellulitis: Know the Risk Factors

Cellulitis research has shown that people with certain risk factors are more likely to develop the infection. Generally, cellulitis risk factors include:
 
  • Problems with the lymphatic system
  • Vein problems
  • Swelling of the leg
  • Breaks in the skin
  • Obesity.
 
Specific cellulitis risk factors include:
 
  • Surgical wounds
  • Skin ulcer (such as a diabetic foot ulcer)
  • Athlete's foot
  • Eczema, psoriasis, or other skin conditions that may cause a break in the skin
  • A previous episode of cellulitis
  • Surgery with lymph node removal
  • Radiation therapy
  • Coronary artery bypass surgery
  • IV drug use
  • Chemotherapy
  • Pregnancy
  • Certain conditions (such as diabetes, HIV or AIDS, leukemia, lymphoma, psoriasis, dyshidrosis, lupus, and heart failure).

 

Risk factors for cellulitis are not causes of the condition; however, such risk factors do increase a person's chance of developing the infection. People who think that they may be at risk of developing cellulitis should discuss this concern with their doctor.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD