Study of bacteremia in patients with cellulitis of legs

Background: Cellulitis is an acute bacterial infection involving dermis and subcutaneous tissue characterized by erythema, induration and tenderness of the involved skin. Bacteremia is the presence of viable bacteria in the blood stream. Recent data suggests that incidence of bacteremia in cellulitis patients are increasing, most often in those with severe infections and comorbidities. Because of high morbidity and mortality associated with bacteremia it is critical to detect the incidence of bacteremia in cellulitis patients Materials & Methods: 50 clinically diagnosed cases of cellulitis who satisfied inclusion and exclusion criteria were taken for study. Sample was collected within 48 hrs of diagnosing the condition and was analyzed. Results: The incidence of bacteremia was 6%. Most frequently isolated bacteria was Beta Hemolytic Streptococcus. Two patients with positive blood culture were found to be diabetic. No antibiotic resistance detected in positive samples. Conclusion: Blood culture though not specific should be performed in patients who have factors increasing the risk of bacteremia. As the bacteremia can be associated with increased mortality it is better to do blood culture in all possible patients.