Diagnosis

A doctor will examine the individual and assess their symptoms.

The doctor may ask about any medications a person is taking, their symptoms, and their medical history.

They may also collect a swab sample or take a biopsy to find out which type of bacteria is present. Laboratory tests can help rule out other possible causes, as other conditions can look similar to cellulitis.

Identifying the cause and type of bacteria enables a doctor to prescribe the most suitable treatment. However, this can be challenging, as the presence of various types of bacteria on the skin can lead to inaccurate results.

Questions that a person may want to ask their doctor include:

• How long will treatment take?
• What side effects may be caused by this medication?
• How can infection be prevented in the future?
• What are some ways to manage other preexisting medical conditions?