Cellulitis Update

Cellulitis is a common problem for those with chronic oedema with considerable morbidity. That is why it essential there is good skin care and oedema management in those individuals. The results of the international, multicentre, cross-sectional study, performed as part of the International Lymphoedema Frameworks LIMPRINT study, provides us with essential information on this problem.

Cellulitis in chronic oedema of the lower leg: an international cross-sectional study

E.A. Burian iD, 1 T. Karlsmark,1 P.J. Franks,2 V. Keeley,3 I. Quere4 and C.J. Moffatt iD 1,5,6. British Journal of Dermatology (2021) 185, pp110–118.

What does this study add?

  • Cellulitis in chronic leg oedema is common in all countries and types of health
    facilities.
  • Wounds, obesity, midline swelling, male sex and diabetes were independently
    associated with a recent episode of cellulitis (within the last 12 months).
  • Severe stages of oedema were associated with cellulitis, while controlled swelling
    was associated with a reduced risk.
  • Measures to improve the control of swelling may have a major effect on the incidence of cellulitis, being potentially preventable

This is an excellent easy to understand presentation available from the International Lymphoedema Framework.

SPEAKERS: Tonny Karlsmark MD and Ewa Anna Burian MD, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen, DK

DESCRIPTION: Why is cellulitis a frequent condition in patients with swollen legs? This important topic will be discussed by Tonny Karlsmark and Ewa Anna Burian, DK, including the clinical manifestation of cellulitis, diagnostic pitfalls, and the current evidence on the treatment and prevention of cellulitis.

Click here to access the presentation

The following article also contributes to the body of knowledge on this topic.

Compression Therapy to Prevent Recurrent Cellulitis of the Leg

Elizabeth Webb, M.P.H., Teresa Neeman, Ph.D., Francis J. Bowden, M.D., Jamie Gaida, Ph.D., Virginia Mumford, Ph.D., and Bernie Bissett, Ph.D. New England Journal Medicine 383;7. August 13, 2020.

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