Which finding is commonly seen in cellulitis?

• A. History of recent skin ulceration or abrasion, venous insufficiency, CHF, or cirrhosis
• B. Older adults
• C. History of diabetes mellitus
• D. Pain, skin swelling, warmth and an advancing, irregular margin of erythema/reddish streaks

Answer: (D)

Cellulitis is an acute bacterial infection of the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, and the hallmark finding is a painful, warm, swollen area of skin with erythema that expands over time. The border of involvement is advancing and often irregular, and you may see lymphangitic streaks as the infection spreads along lymphatic channels. While risk factors such as a recent skin break, venous insufficiency, heart failure, cirrhosis, older age, or diabetes can predispose someone to cellulitis, they describe predisposing conditions rather than the current exam findings. The described advancing, irregular margin with possible reddish streaks best captures the typical presentation.