Which microorganism is commonly associated with cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a common skin infection characterized by inflammation of the dermis and subcutaneous tissues, typically caused by bacterial pathogens. Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most frequently identified organisms responsible for cellulitis. This bacterium is a skin commensal that can enter through breaks in the skin barrier, leading to infection.

In cellulitis cases, Staphylococcus aureus can present alone or in conjunction with other bacteria, particularly when there is an associated abscess. This pathogen is known for causing a range of skin and soft tissue infections, including abscesses and folliculitis, and its ability to produce toxins contributes to the severity of infections.

While other organisms like Escherichia coli and Clostridium perfringens can cause skin infections, they are more commonly associated with specific clinical scenarios such as abscess in the case of E. coli, primarily in the context of deep tissue infections or with direct entry from gastrointestinal flora. Clostridium perfringens is typically linked to gas gangrene and trauma rather than typical cellulitis. Streptococcus pneumoniae, while a significant pathogen in respiratory infections and some skin infections, is not typically a common cause of cellulitis.

Thus, the association of Staphyl