lymphangitis

What is Lymphangitis?

Lymphangitis is an inflammation of the lymphatic system, which is a part of the immune system that helps to fight infections and diseases.

• It occurs when there is an infection or inflammation in the lymph vessels, causing them to become swollen and red. [1]
• This condition can be caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, as well as other non-infectious causes such as trauma or surgery. [6]
• Lymphangitis can occur anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly found in the arms and legs. [7]

Causes of Lymphangitis

Lymphangitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Bacterial infections: Such as strep or staph infections, which can cause lymphangitis as a complication. [2]
• Viral infections: Such as the flu or other viral illnesses that can affect the lymphatic system.
• Fungal infections: Such as athlete's foot or other fungal infections that can spread to the lymph vessels.
• Non-infectious causes: Such as trauma, surgery, or other medical conditions that can cause inflammation in the lymph vessels.

Symptoms of Lymphangitis

The symptoms of lymphangitis can vary depending on the severity and location of the infection. However, common symptoms include:

• Redness and swelling along the affected limb
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Fever or chills
• Swollen lymph nodes

Treatment of Lymphangitis

Lymphangitis is typically treated with antibiotics to address any underlying bacterial infections. In some cases, additional treatment may be necessary to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

References: [1] - May 19, 2023 — [2] - Jul 7, 2023 — [6] - Jan 29, 2024 — [7] -

Common Signs and Symptoms of Lymphangitis

Lymphangitis, an infection-related condition, can manifest in various ways. Here are the common signs and symptoms to look out for:

• Red streaks on the skin: Tender red streaks often radiate from the wound toward the nearest lymph glands [4].
• Fever and chills: A person may experience fever and chills as their body tries to fight off the infection [2, 5, 6, 7].
• Enlarged and tender lymph nodes: Swollen and painful lymph nodes, usually in the elbow, armpit, or groin area, can be a symptom of lymphangitis [2, 6, 7].
• General ill feeling (malaise): A person may feel unwell, with a general sense of illness, as their body tries to fight off the infection [2, 6, 7].
• Headache: Headaches can occur due to the infection and inflammation in the body [5, 6, 7].
• Rapid heart rate: A rapid heartbeat can be a symptom of lymphangitis, indicating that the body is trying to fight off the infection [5].
• Swollen, painful lymph nodes: Swollen and painful lymph nodes are a common symptom of lymphangitis [7].

It's essential to seek medical attention if you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms. Early treatment can help prevent complications and promote recovery.

References: [1] Not applicable (context provided) [2] May 19, 2023 — Symptoms [3] Nov 28, 2022 — A person may notice red or dark streaks extending from the site of an injury, along with swelling, pain, and warmth. [4] Tender red streaks often radiate from the wound toward the nearest lymph glands. Other symptoms include fever, chills, and a general sense of illness. [5] Common symptoms of lymphangitis include a fever, shaking chills, a rapid heart rate, and a headache. Sometimes these symptoms occur before the red streaks appear. [6] Symptoms · Fever and chills · Enlarged and tender lymph nodes (glands) -- usually in the elbow, armpit, or groin · General ill feeling (malaise) · Headache · Loss of appetite [7] What are the symptoms of lymphangitis? · Fever or chills · Headache · Loss of appetite · Rapid heart rate · Swollen, painful lymph nodes · Vomiting

Diagnostic Tests for Lymphangitis

Lymphangitis, an inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, can be diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and laboratory tests.

• Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will perform a thorough physical exam to look for signs of lymphangitis, such as red streaks or swelling along the affected area [1]. They may also feel your lymph nodes and examine your skin to check for any abnormalities [5].
• Blood Tests: Blood tests are usually ordered to check for an increase in white blood cells, which can indicate infection [4]. A complete blood cell (CBC) count and blood culture should be obtained in individuals presenting with lymphangitis [2].
• Imaging Studies: Imaging studies may be necessary to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. For example, a biopsy of swollen lymph nodes may be performed to confirm the diagnosis [7].
• Clinical Diagnosis: In some cases, a doctor may suspect lymphangitis based on a person's symptoms alone, such as swollen lymph nodes and red streaks extending from them [8].

It is essential to note that the diagnosis of lymphangitis is primarily clinical, meaning it is based on the healthcare provider's examination and medical history. However, laboratory tests can help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

References: [1] - Context result 1 [2] - Context result 2 [4] - Context result 4 [5] - Context result 5 [7] - Context result 7 [8] - Context result 8

Treatment Options for Lymphangitis

Lymphangitis, an inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications. The primary treatment for lymphangitis involves antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications.

• Antibiotics: Most cases respond rapidly to antistreptococcal antibiotics (see treatment of cellulitis) [1]. Common antibiotic regimens include:
  • Penicillin G 2-4 mil.U IV q4-6h followed by amoxicillin 500mg PO q6h [5]
  • Cefazolin 1g IV q8h followed by amoxicillin or cephalexin 500 mg PO q6h [5]
• Intravenous (IV) Antimicrobial Therapy: Some patients may require admission for IV antimicrobial therapy, especially children [4].
• Oral Antibiotics: Most cases will need antibiotics as treatment. Oral antibiotics can be prescribed instead of IV antibiotics, but a doctor's order is required [6].

Additional Treatment Options

• NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help decrease swelling and pain or fever. However, they should be used with caution due to potential side effects such as stomach bleeding or kidney problems [7].
• Specific Antibiotics for Animals: For animals, enrofloxacin 7.5 mg/kg IV q24h is the preferred antibiotic, while trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole 20 to 30 mg/kg PO can also be used [8].

It's essential to consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of lymphangitis.

Differential Diagnosis of Lymphangitis

Lymphangitis, an inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, can be caused by various factors. The differential diagnosis of lymphangitis involves considering several conditions that may present with similar symptoms.

• Contact dermatitis: This is a skin condition caused by exposure to allergens or irritants, which can lead to inflammation and lymphangitis (1).
• Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, cellulitis can cause redness, swelling, and lymphangitis (2).
• Septic thrombophlebitis: This is a condition where a blood clot in a vein becomes infected, leading to inflammation and lymphangitis (4).
• Thrombophlebitis: A blood clot in a vein, thrombophlebitis can be a differential diagnosis for lymphangitis, although it typically lacks the characteristic inciting lesion (5).

Other Considerations

• Nodular lymphangitis: This is a distinct clinical entity that presents with nodules and inflammation of the lymphatic vessels. It can be caused by various factors, including Mycobacterium infections (6).
• Sporotrichoid lymphocutaneous infections: These are a group of infectious diseases that can cause lymphangitis and other symptoms (8).

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The diagnosis of lymphangitis is typically clinical, with symptoms including erythematous, irregular, warm, tender streaks on an extremity. Treatment usually involves antibiotics for bacterial causes (7). If you suspect lymphangitis, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly.

References: (1) [1] (2) [2] (3) Not cited (4) [4] (5) [5] (6) [6] (7) [7] (8) [8]