Final answer:
The recommended firstline treatment for cellulitis is administration of penicillin-based antibiotics, as streptococcal pathogens have not shown widespread resistance to this class of drugs. Alternatives may be used based on allergy or resistance profiles. Proper identification and complete antibiotic course are vital for effective treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The recommended firstline treatment for cellulitis is the use of penicillin-based antibiotics, as streptococcal pathogens commonly associated with this infection have not shown widespread resistance to it. For patients allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics may be considered based on the sensitivity analysis of the pathogen. Cellulitis treatment typically includes a prescription of oral or intravenous antibiotics, frequently starting with a broad-spectrum option pending results from pathogen identification.
The use of immune response-based tests such as agglutination reactions and ELISA can aid in identifying the specific bacteria causing cellulitis, thus aiding in selecting the most effective antibiotic therapy. Practices such as timely administration and completion of an antibiotic course are essential to ensure the successful treatment of the infection and prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant strains. It is also significant to notify that for conditions like erythema nodosum associated with cellulitis, antimicrobial drugs are not generally recommended; instead, supportive therapies like NSAIDs, cool wet compresses, elevation, and rest are preferred.