Diflucan causing cellulitis?

Hi, I recently took Diflucan for a nagging yeast infection. I was given one tablet to take, and was told that my yeast infection symptoms should be cleared up in 7 to 10 days. About three days after I used the Diflucan, the skin on my nose, near my right nostril became bright red. I thought I was getting a pimple, so I started using benzoyl peroxide cream. Within about 2 or 3 more days, I began getting dry and flaky skin where I had used the benzoyl peroxide, and my nose was still bright red. Also, the glands in my chin started to become sore and swell. I thought I was simply getting my roommate's cold, even though I don't usually experience the glands in my chin swelling. My right gland in particular was most swollen.

I stopped using the benzoyl peroxide, and just washed my face with Ivory soap. The next day following stopping the benzoyl peroxide, I picked a little at the dry skin. My skin started to slightly ooze clearish/white liquid. I was still convinced I had a pimple, so I washed the area and decided not to pick at it anymore. The next day the skin above my nostril was clearly infected, and while my skin wasn't quite as red anymore, the whole tip of my nose and right nostril were swollen. The next day I saw a doctor who diagnosed it as cellulitis, and also said I had a bit of a throat infection as well. My question is, could this skin infection have been caused by the Diflucan? I think I might still have a slight yeast infection, but the doctor seemed hesitant to give me anymore Diflucan.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Diflucan does not seem to be causing these symptoms. The redness and dryness that you had was after using benzoyl peroxide and it is known to cause skin dryness when used in excess amount. Cellulitis of the skin has appeared after you have scratched the area. It usually follows a break in the skin, such as a fissure, cut, laceration, insect bite, or puncture wound.
Keep the area clean and apply some topical antiseptics. Also use an antibacterial soap or mild soap like dove. Avoid any kind of cosmetics and take the oral antibiotics that your doctor has prescribed.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.