Initial X-rays at a local hospital revealed no fractures or foreign objects, leading An's mother to suspect an insect bite. However, as the swelling worsened and An developed a high fever, she was taken to Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM. There, ultrasound and blood tests led Dr. Nguyen Thi Hanh Trang, Deputy Head of Pediatrics, to diagnose cellulitis.

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection affecting the deep layers of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. It typically causes swelling, warmth, redness, and pain in the affected area, sometimes accompanied by fever. Common culprits are streptococcus and staphylococcus bacteria.

According to Dr. Trang, bacteria often enter through skin damage that compromises its protective barrier, such as scratches, insect bites, cracked skin, or injuries around the nails. Activities like nail cutting or friction from footwear causing blisters can also create entry points. In many instances, the initial scratch is so minor that the exact point of bacterial entry cannot be identified.

An received antibiotic treatment and was monitored for infection. After 5 days of treatment, her fever subsided, the swelling and pain in her foot decreased, and she was able to walk.

A doctor examines An before her discharge. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Cellulitis is primarily diagnosed through physical examination. In some cases, doctors may order an ultrasound if they suspect an abscess, deep-seated infection, or a foreign object beneath the skin.

The condition is primarily treated medically with antibiotics. Depending on the severity, children may receive oral or intravenous antibiotics, combined with pain relievers and fever reducers as needed. If a pus-filled abscess forms, an incision and drainage procedure may be performed.

Doctors advise parents to be vigilant for signs such as skin swelling, warmth, redness, or pain in children. They should inspect areas around nails, between toes, and any scratches, keeping injuries clean. Seek medical attention if the redness spreads, pain intensifies, or a fever develops. Immediate hospital care is necessary if a child experiences a high fever, chills, severe pain, rapidly worsening lesions, excessive vomiting, lethargy, or rapid breathing.

Phuong Dang