Etiology

Some authors have noted that cellulitis is common in hypothyroid conditions, and responds well to treatment of the underlying hypothyroid condition [Starr2005, pg 108].

Differential Diagnosis

  • Basal body temperature below 97.8 degrees F, elevated TSH, or depressed T3 (suggests hypothyroidism).

Treatment

Cellulitis is a potentially dangerous infection and merits prompt antibiotic treatment. If hypothyroidism is present, subsequent treatment of this condition may reduce the likelihood of recurrence of cellulitis.

Hypotheses

It has been pointed out that hypothyroidism can reduce blood flow to the skin by as much as 80%. This may contribute to a variety of skin conditions [Starr2005, pg 108].

References