Cellulitis and Pseudomonas: what to know

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of deeper skin. Pseudomonas can be considered when infection follows certain water exposures, affects a wound, involves damaged tissue, or fails to improve with the initial plan. A greenish discharge or unusual smell can occur with infected wounds, but appearance alone cannot identify the bacterium.

A clinician may examine the area, ask about swimming pools, hot tubs, seawater, recent procedures, wounds, and prior antibiotics, then decide whether a swab or other test is useful. Athlete's Foot and skin cracks can also allow bacteria to enter. Type 2 Diabetes may increase the need for careful foot and wound assessment.

Arrange medical review for spreading warmth, redness, swelling, drainage, or pain, especially after a water-exposed wound. Keep the wound covered with a clean dressing, wash your hands before and after care, and avoid swimming until a clinician says it is safe.

Use only the medicine prescribed for this episode. Do not request a specific antibiotic solely because Pseudomonas is a concern; treatment should match the examination and any test result. Follow dressing instructions and return for review if the area is not settling or is changing.

Seek urgent help if the infection spreads quickly, pain is severe, skin becomes purple or dusky, blisters develop, or you have Fever, shaking, confusion, faintness, or difficulty breathing. These symptoms may indicate a severe infection, including Sepsis. A foot wound with reduced sensation or poor circulation deserves prompt attention.

Ask whether a wound sample is appropriate, which exposures or health conditions affect the likely bacteria, how to care for the wound, and when it should be checked again. Mention recent antibiotics, water contact, surgery, diabetes, Athlete's Foot, or any medicine allergies.