What is it about ?
Facial cellulite is a subcutaneous infection of the face caused by bacteria. The bacteria can come from a wound on the face that has become infected, but it can also be carried by the blood from another place in the body where an infection has developed (a sinusitis for example).
Cellulite has become much less common since we systematically vaccinate against some common bacteria. The introduction of the vaccine against haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) has virtually eliminated the cellulitis caused by this bacteria.
The term “cellulite” is also used to refer to the accumulation of subcutaneous fat that gives the skin the appearance of an orange peel, usually on the thighs. This patient guide deals only withinfection and has nothing to do with cellulite called “orange peel”.
How to recognize it?
In addition to fever, the main symptoms are swelling, heat and redness of the face. It is usually located on the cheek or around the eye (orbital cellulitis), which can have a impact on the visual field.
How is the diagnosis made?
Most often, the doctor can make the diagnosis by seeing the child. Additional examinations are generally not necessary. A blood test can reveal a bacterial infection. In case of suspicion of sinusitis or severe swelling in and around the eye, the doctor sometimes orders a CT scan or MRI.
What can you do ?
Facial cellulitis is always a serious infection. She can even touch vision permanently. You should therefore never wait, but consult a doctor as soon as possible.
What can the doctor do?
Treatment with high dose antibiotics is necessary. It is given by infusion in the hospital.
Want to know more?
- The hospital explained to children – Plaster
- The injections (blood test and infusion) explained to children – plaster
- My child is going to have a CT scan – Plaster
- My child is going to have an MRI – Plaster
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