Internist Questions Doctor

What tests are needed for possible cellulitis?

My one leg has swelling from the knee down. Dr. thought it might be a blood clot, and sent me to the ER. They did a scan and the blood test found nothing. They sent me home and said to elevate my leg, I have an adjustable bed. I always sleep slightly elevated, if I elevate my leg any higher I get muscle cramps. That was Friday, May 7, 21.

If I sit or stand too long I get edema in both legs. For the first time ever, only one leg swelled on Sunday, May 9, 21. It was even more swollen than Friday. I went back to the ER and saw a Dr. Shhe said for that visit, they had to do up to 3 or 4 scans before they found a blood clot. She said possible cellulitis. They said I need a CT scan and MRI to diagnose.

Female | 90 years old
Complaint duration: 11 DAYS
Medications: BLOOD PRESSURE &THYROID /PAIN MED.
Conditions: ARITHRITIS FIBROMIALGY

1 Answer

Cellulitis is a clinical diagnosis. Usually, it does not require additional testing. The skin appears red, warm, tender, swollen, and shiny. The diagnosis is supported by additional features such as fever, malaise, and tiredness. Blood tests will show increased white blood cells and other nonspecific inflammatory markers. Blood cultures may be positive in some cases.
Hope this helps.