The symptoms of contact dermatitis can be very similar to a bacterial infection when the symptoms first occur. Redness, swelling, warmth to the site, and tenderness are signs of both. Usually itching is seen in contact dermatitis and pus or drainage is seen with a bacterial infection. Also, the symptoms of a bacterial infection get much worse over time, the redness spreads as well as the swelling increases. A fever and bodyaches are also signs of a bacterial infection.

Contact dermatitis is caused when the skin comes into contact with a substance that you are allergic to or that irritates the skin such as household cleaners and other chemicals. A bacterial infection can follow an episode of contact dermatitis.

With a bacterial infection, the most tiny break in the skin such as one from an insect bite or a minor cut or scrape, can allow bacteria to invade the surrounding tissues and start an infection.


I have added some links that describe both conditions below:


Contact dermatitis



Cellulitis-Full Info



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