Cellulitis Resource Center
Health ConditionsSkin ConditionsCellulitis

Cellulitis

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Cellulitis is a common skin infection often occurring in the lower legs — but sometimes on the arms, face, and elsewhere — that can cause severe inflammation, swelling, pain, and warmth. Treatment involves prescription oral or intravenous (IV) antibiotics, which can prevent the infection from spreading to the lymph nodes and bloodstream and becoming a life-threatening situation.

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Cellulitis Symptoms
leg showing signs of cellulitis
Cellulitis SymptomsMedically Reviewed by Lydia J. Johnson, MD | August 1, 2025
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Jacquelyn Dosal

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD

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Castle Connolly Top Doctor

Jacquelyn Dosal, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist practicing at The Dermatology House in Park City, Utah. Her areas of expertise include acne, rosacea, integrative treatments...

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Allison Buttarazzi, MD, DipABLM, CHWC

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Allie Buttarazzi, MD, is a double board-certified internal medicine and lifestyle medicine physician, Direct Primary Care cofounder, and certified health and well-being coach. Thro...

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Mohiba Tareen, MD

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Mohiba Tareen, MD, is a nationally acclaimed board-certified dermatologist. She practices medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology at her Minnesota medical practice, Tareen Derm...

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Amy Spizuoco, DO

Medical Reviewer
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Amy Spizuoco, DO, is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist. Dr. Spizuoco has been practicing medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology, as well as dermatopatholo...

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Ross Radusky, MD

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Ross Radusky, MD, is a practicing board-certified dermatologist at the Dermatology Treatment and Research Center in Dallas. Originally from New York City, he graduated summa cum la...

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Resources
  1. Cellulitis: Symptoms and Causes. Mayo Clinic. May 6, 2022.