Condition
Cellulitis in Kids
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues.
What Are the Types and Causes of Cellulitis that Affects the Eye?
- Preseptal Cellulitis - the infection affects the eyelid. Causes can include bug bite, trauma, chalazion or hordeolum/stye.
- Postseptal/Orbital Cellulitis - the infection affects the eyelid as well as tissues further back around the eye. The most common cause is a sinus infection.
What Are the Symptoms of Cellulitis?
- Preseptal cellulitis
- Eyelid swelling
- Pain
- Redness
- Drainage
- Postseptal/Orbital cellulitis
- Symptoms associated with preseptal cellulitis
- Pain with eye movement
- Decreased vision
How Is Cellulitis Diagnosed?
Cellulitis is typically diagnosed following a complete history and eye examination. If there is concern for postseptal/orbital cellulitis, then a CT scan may be needed.
What Is the Treatment for Cellulitis?
- Preseptal Cellulitis - Oral antibiotics.
- Postseptal/Orbital Cellulitis - Intravenous antibiotics. Surgery is sometimes needed if an abscess has formed.