Many cases of cellulitis are fairly minor, and symptoms are mild. However, cellulitis can have very serious effects on your body if it is not controlled and treated properly.
The infection can become quite dangerous if it spreads to the lymph nodes (lymphadenitis), lymph vessels (lymphangitis) and bloodstream (bacteremia).
In isolated cases, deep tissues called the fascial lining become infected; this condition, called necrotizing fasciitis, can be life threatening.
Chronic cellulitis can result in damage to the lymphatic system, creating persistently swollen tissue of the affected area.