Treating cellulitis promptly with compression therapy reduces C-reactive protein-levels and symptoms - a randomized-controlled trial.

Background and objectives: Cellulitis is an acute bacterial infection of the skin. Initial treatment primarily consists of systemic antibiotic therapy. Compression therapy is subsequently introduced to reduce edema. However, the optimal timing for initiating compression therapy remains a subject of debate, as early application is thought to potentially exacerbate the infection.

Patients and methods: This study was designed as a prospective, randomized controlled trial. Patients admitted for treatment of lower leg cellulitis were recruited and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio. In addition to standard therapy, the intervention group received compression therapy one day after initiation of antibiotic treatment, using medical adaptive compression wraps. C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, reduction in erythema, and patient-reported symptoms were recorded.

Results: A total of 34 patients were included in the analysis. Early application of medical adaptive compression wraps alleviated symptoms without causing complications. In patients with initial CRP levels above 50 mg/dl at admission, CRP reduction occurred more rapidly.

Conclusions: Our data suggest that the early application of medical adaptive compression wraps within 24 hours of initiating antibiotic treatment alleviates symptoms, supports recovery, and does not lead to worsening of inflammation.