Cellulitis incidence in a defined population

S M Ellis Simonsen1, E R van Orman, B E Hatch

  • 1Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA.

Epidemiology and Infection
|February 24, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Cellulitis is common, affecting 24.6 per 1000 person-years, primarily the lower leg. Most cases are treated outpatient and rarely lead to severe complications like necrotizing fasciitis.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection.
  • Understanding its incidence and outcomes is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence, anatomical distribution, and recurrence of cellulitis.
  • To identify complicating diagnoses and healthcare utilization patterns.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a population-based insurance claims database.
  • Analyzed ICD-9-CM codes for cellulitis (681.0-682.9) and complications.
  • Examined data over a 5-year period.

Main Results:

  • Cellulitis incidence was 24.6 per 1000 person-years.
  • Higher incidence observed in males and those aged 45-64.
  • Lower extremity was the most common infection site (39.9%).
  • Most cases (73.8%) were treated in outpatient settings.
  • Recurrence was low (82.0% had one episode).
  • Complications, including necrotizing fasciitis, were infrequent.

Conclusions:

  • Cellulitis is a prevalent condition, predominantly managed in outpatient settings.
  • The risk of severe complications from cellulitis is low.
  • Further research into prevention and management strategies is warranted.

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