Causes, Risk Factors, And Complications Of Cellulitis

Weakened Immune System

Individuals who have a weakened immune system have a higher chance of developing cellulitis than others. When the bacteria from the infection enter the skin, the immune system will typically go to work destroying them. Many individuals may have bacterial infections destroyed by their immune systems before they develop symptoms. But when someone already has a weakened immune system, their body might not be able to fight off infections a healthy immune system could manage. In this manner, a weakened immune system heightens an individual's risk factor. If patients have an autoimmune disease or other diseases that weaken their immune system, they might need a longer course of antibiotics. It's important, therefore, for patients to tell their doctor about their medical history, including any autoimmune diseases they have. The same is true of the medications they take, as some medications can compromise the patient's immune system. Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and certain types of cancers may have a higher risk of cellulitis. In addition, when they do develop cellulitis, the condition may spread more rapidly than in others.