Norton Practice Test

Signs that resemble cellulitis around a surgical scar can come from noninfectious causes. Recurrence of cancer at the excision site can produce a mass with redness and warmth as the tumor grows near the surface, which can look like an infection. Bruising from compression in someone with capillary fragility can cause ecchymosis and localized swelling and heat, again mimicking cellulitis. A dermal infiltrating tumor directly within the skin can cause inflammatory‑appearing changes—redness, swelling, and warmth—without any infection. Because these processes can each create cellulitis‑like signs, the most complete explanation is when all three are considered as possible mimickers.