Immunosuppressants: Medications that Weaken the Immune System
Immunosuppressants refer to a category of medications that have the ability to weaken the immune system. This includes drugs like corticosteroids and chemotherapy, which are commonly prescribed for various purposes. While these medications are beneficial in treating conditions such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, and preventing organ rejection after a transplantation, they also come with a downside. The weakened immune system caused by immunosuppressants puts individuals at a higher risk of infections. Even minor cuts and scrapes can easily develop into cellulitis infections if not properly treated due to the body’s reduced ability to fight off pathogens.
Surgical Wound Infections
Surgical procedures are responsible for approximately 25% of all hospital admissions. It is estimated that between 2% and 4% of patients who undergo inpatient surgeries develop surgical site infections, including cellulitis. Infections are more likely to occur following certain common inpatient procedures such as cesarean sections, hip and knee replacements, and hip fracture repairs.