Northern Health logo
Guidelines
Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (Cellulitis and Diabetic Foot)

Skin and Soft Tissue Infections (Cellulitis and Diabetic Foot)

Clinical Key Points

ELEVATE above the heart, whenever possible

Avoid using same class of antibiotics if used within previous 3 MONTHS

Superficial skin swabs NOT recommended

Cellulitis Progression

Usually progresses 24 to 48 hr after initiation of treatment BEFORE it improves

Step Down to PO

When resolution of systemic symptoms or no further progression

Diabetic Foot Infection Severties

Mild

  • Local infection with erythema > 0.5 cm and ≤ 2 cm around ulcer

Moderate

  • Local infection with erythema > 2 cm or deeper infection

  • With NO systemic symptoms

Severe

  • Local infection with erythema > 2 cm or deeper infection

  • PLUS signs of systemic infection

Indication

Non-Purulent Cellulitis

Purulent Cellulitis or Abscess

Diabetic Foot Ulcer (no sign of infection)

Diabetic Foot Infection: Mild

Diabetic Foot Infection: Moderate

Diabetic Foot Infection: Severe