Which condition is indicated by swollen, red, hot, and tender skin?

Cellulitis is an acute, potentially serious bacterial infection of the skin and the underlying tissues. The condition is characterized by swollen, red, hot, and tender skin. The inflammation occurs due to bacteria entering through a break in the skin, leading to an immune response and visible symptoms such as swelling and redness. Additionally, the area may feel warm to the touch and can be painful, indicating that the body is fighting an infection.

Dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema, while they may also involve skin redness and inflammation, do not typically present with the combination of swelling, intense heat, and tenderness as seen in cellulitis. Dermatitis often involves irritation or allergic reactions, psoriasis features thick, scaly patches, and eczema is generally associated with dry, itchy skin rather than the acute inflammation characteristic of cellulitis. Therefore, recognizing the specific presentation of symptoms helps to correctly identify cellulitis as the condition described.