**Core Concept**
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues, typically involving the dermis and hypodermis. It is characterized by erythema, edema, warmth, and tenderness, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The most common causative organisms are Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is that cellulitis does not typically exhibit **pustules**. Cellulitis is a diffuse, non-pustular infection, whereas pustules are characteristic of folliculitis or furuncles. The diffuse nature of cellulitis is due to the involvement of the dermis and hypodermis, where bacteria can spread easily through the lymphatic vessels. In contrast, pustules form in response to localized infections, such as those involving hair follicles.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because **erythema** is a characteristic of cellulitis, indicating inflammation of the dermis. Erythema is a hallmark of cellulitis and can be used as a diagnostic criterion.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because **edema** is a characteristic of cellulitis, indicating inflammation and fluid accumulation in the subcutaneous tissues. Edema is a key feature of cellulitis and can be used to differentiate it from other skin conditions.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because **fever** is a common systemic symptom of cellulitis, indicating a bacterial infection. Fever is often accompanied by other systemic symptoms such as malaise and chills.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
To remember the characteristics of cellulitis, use the mnemonic **"EDEE"**, which stands for **E**rythema, **D**iffuse swelling, **E**dema, and **E**rythema (again, to emphasize the diffuse nature of the infection).

**Correct Answer: A. Pustules**