Recurrent cellulitis: What causes it?

My husband has had cellulitis three times in the last year — and in three different parts of his body. What causes recurrent cellulitis?

- No name / No state given

Mayo Clinic dermatologist Lawrence Gibson, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

Cellulitis occurs when bacteria enter your body through a crack or cut in your skin. Sometimes cellulitis can recur. Conditions that increase the risk of recurrent cellulitis include:

Wounds, cuts and incisions — including body piercings — which provide an entry for bacteria
Chronic skin conditions, such as eczema or athlete's foot (tinea pedis), which cause the skin to blister or crack
Chronic lymphedema
Obesity — areas where the skin folds over or rubs together can become irritated and susceptible to infection
Poor circulation, such as from diabetes, which interferes with healing and increases your risk of infections
Weakened immune system, such as in HIV infection

Treatment of cellulitis is with antibiotics. It is important to take antibiotics exactly as directed by your doctor and to take all of the antibiotics prescribed. To prevent cellulitis from recurring:

Wash your hands daily with soap and water.
Protect your hands and feet. For example, wear appropriate footwear, gloves, and long sleeves and pants, such as when hiking or gardening, to prevent cuts and scrapes.
Keep skin clean and well moisturized.
Carefully trim fingernails and toenails to avoid skin injury.
Treat skin infections of the hands and feet promptly.

Some people with recurrent cellulitis may benefit from long-term antibiotic treatment to prevent infection.