my wife has arash on legs

my wife has a rash on her legs and on her foot.the rash has swelled up her foot and the rash is hot to the touch,burns and itches. can someone tell me what you think it may be..... thank you

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Without examination, confirmation of a diagnosis is tough but it sounds like cellulitis or erythema nodosum. Cellulitis is an acute infection of skin and soft tissues characterized by localized pain, swelling, tenderness, erythema, and warmth.Erythema nodosum results in reddish, painful, tender lumps most commonly located in the front of the legs below the knees.

Diagnosis is by physical examination and biopsy of the lesion. Other lab investigations like complete blood count, ESR,ASO titer, urinalysis, throat culture, intradermal tuberculin test, and chest x-ray may also be done.

I would recommend a physician/dermatologist’s evaluation. Treatment depends on the confirmation of diagnosis.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or in case you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.