What does pre-septal cellulitis refer to?

Pre-septal cellulitis is specifically identified as a bacterial infection occurring in the soft tissues that are located anterior to the orbital septum. The orbital septum is a fibrous structure that acts as a barrier between the eyelids and the orbit, the bony cavity that houses the eye. In pre-septal cellulitis, the infection is localized to the eyelids and surrounding areas, which typically presents with symptoms such as swelling, redness, and tenderness, while the eyeball and deeper structures remain unaffected.

This condition primarily arises from organisms such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, often as a result of trauma, sinusitis, or conjunctivitis. Knowledge of the anatomic distinction provided by the orbital septum is crucial because it helps clinicians differentiate between pre-septal cellulitis and orbital cellulitis, which involves a more serious infection that can affect vision and lead to complications. Understanding the scope and implications of infections in relation to their anatomical boundaries is vital in medical-surgical nursing.