What is Neck Cellulitis?

Neck cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of the skin and soft tissues of the neck. It causes redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area. If left untreated, it can spread rapidly and become life-threatening, especially due to the risk of airway obstruction or systemic infection.

What Causes Neck Cellulitis?

The condition is usually caused by bacteria entering the skin through:

• Cuts or abrasions
• Insect bites
• Surgical wounds or incisions
• Infected cysts or boils
• Dental or throat infections spreading into the neck tissues

Which Bacteria Commonly Cause It?

• Streptococcus pyogenes
• Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA strains
• Anaerobic bacteria in deeper or spreading infections

Who is at Risk for Neck Cellulitis?

• People with weakened immune systems
• Diabetics
• Individuals with poor hygiene
• Those with untreated dental or skin infections
• People with recent neck surgeries or trauma

What Are the Symptoms of Neck Cellulitis?

Symptoms typically include:

• Red, swollen area on the neck
• Pain and tenderness
• Skin that feels warm or hot to the touch
• Fever and chills
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Rapidly expanding redness
• Possible pus drainage
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing in severe cases

How is Neck Cellulitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on:

• Clinical examination of the skin
• Blood tests to check for infection
• Imaging such as ultrasound or CT scan if an abscess or deep infection is suspected
• Culture of any pus or drainage

How is Neck Cellulitis Treated?

1. Are Antibiotics Necessary?

Yes, immediate antibiotic treatment is essential. Common choices include:

• Oral or IV antibiotics depending on severity
• Coverage for both Streptococcus and Staphylococcus
• Adjustment based on bacterial culture results

2. Is Hospitalization Required?

• Mild cases may be treated at home.
• Severe cases or those involving systemic symptoms often require hospital care and IV antibiotics.

3. Is Surgery Ever Needed?

• If an abscess develops, surgical drainage may be necessary.
• In rare cases, debridement of dead tissue is performed.

What Are the Possible Complications?

• Spread of infection to deeper neck structures (e.g., deep neck space infections)
• Airway obstruction
• Sepsis (bloodstream infection)
• Abscess formation
• Tissue death (necrosis)
• Mediastinitis (infection spreading to chest cavity)

What is the Prognosis?

With prompt treatment, most cases resolve completely. However, delayed care increases the risk of complications.

How Can Neck Cellulitis Be Prevented?

• Keep cuts and scrapes clean and covered
• Treat dental and throat infections early
• Practice good hygiene
• Manage chronic illnesses like diabetes properly
• Avoid scratching insect bites or skin irritations