Chemotherapy-associated pseudocellulitis: a case series of four patients

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Oncology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Pseudocellulitis is non-necrotizing inflammation of the skin and subcutaneous tissue from noninfectious causes.
• It can be misdiagnosed as cellulitis, leading to inappropriate workups and antibiotic prescriptions.
• Chemotherapy-associated pseudocellulitis (CAP) is a specific form that requires accurate identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe four unique cases of chemotherapy-associated pseudocellulitis (CAP).
• To discuss methods for identifying CAP and differentiating it from infectious cellulitis.
• To reduce misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment in patients receiving chemotherapy.

Main Methods:

• A case series approach was used.
• Four cases of chemotherapy-associated pseudocellulitis were identified and described.
• Clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management strategies were reviewed.

Main Results:

• The four cases presented with features that mimicked infectious cellulitis.
• Accurate diagnosis of CAP was achieved through careful clinical evaluation and exclusion of infection.
• Prompt recognition can prevent unnecessary antibiotic use and further investigations.

Conclusions:

• Chemotherapy-associated pseudocellulitis is a critical differential diagnosis in patients undergoing cancer treatment.
• Awareness and specific diagnostic criteria are essential for correct identification.
• Improved diagnostic accuracy for CAP can optimize patient care and resource utilization.