Which medical condition refers to an infection of skin cells?

The medical condition that refers to an infection of skin cells is cellulitis. This condition occurs when bacteria enter the skin through a break or cut, leading to inflammation and infection of the deeper layers of the skin, particularly the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Symptoms of cellulitis often include redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area, and it can also be associated with fever and chills.

In contrast, dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin due to various causes, such as allergies or irritants, rather than an infection. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that leads to rapid skin cell production, resulting in thick, scaly patches but is not caused by an infection. Eczema is a term often used interchangeably with atopic dermatitis, which is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy skin, rather than an infectious process. Thus, cellulitis is the condition specifically linked to an infection of skin cells.