Lymphangitis is an inflammation of the superficial lymphatic vessels. It usually affects the lower limbs, but not always. This unpleasant condition can start with an innocent cut that is the gateway to bacteria. What are the symptoms? What do we treat them with?

Lymphangitis(Latinlymphangitis ) develops when a pathogenic agent (virus, bacteria, fungus) enters the lymphatic vessels . Usually this is the result of an cut, but it can also be the consequence of an existing infection.

The most common etiological factor is bacteria, specifically staphylococci or streptococci. Other types of bacteria are rare and affect patients at risk. Bite wounds, which are associated with anaerobic bacteria infection, are a special case. Gardeners and farmers are occupational groups exposed to sporotrichosis, i.e. infection with soil fungi. Another exception is geographic areas, such as in Southeast Asia, where filariosis occurs. She is the most common cause of lymphangitis there.

For a variantLymphangitis carcinomatosais an inflammation of the lymphatic vessels which is not a consequence of an infection. It is the result of the spread of a cancer process, usually advanced breast cancer, lung cancer, stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer, or prostate cancer.

Lymphangitis: risk factors

Patients with the disease are particularly at risk:

  • immunodeficiency
  • diabetic
  • chickenpox
  • chronic steroid users

Lymphangitis: symptoms

The first and most characteristic symptom is irregular, linear, painful redness along the course of the affected vessel, starting from the pathogen penetration site and reaching the local lymph nodes. Then other symptoms join, such as:

  • fever
  • chills
  • headaches
  • feeling unwell
  • lack of appetite
  • muscle aches
  • enlargement and soreness of the lymph nodes

Lymphangitis: diagnosis

Due to the characteristic clinical picture, no specialized tests are needed. Already on the basis ofphysical examination itself, the doctor usually makes a diagnosis. Laboratory blood tests further confirm that your body is becoming inflamed. In differentiation, we must not forget about superficial vein inflammation and contact dermatitis.

Lymphangitis: treatment

The basis is causal treatment. Due to the most common bacterial etiology, antibiotics are administered. Patients can be relieved with hot compresses because heat, by facilitating blood flow, speeds up healing and relieves pain. In addition, raise the affected part of your body as high as possible to reduce swelling and slow the spread of infection. As an auxiliary, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are administered.

If treatment is unsuccessful, surgery may be necessary.

Lymphangitis: complications

It is important to start treatment early so that infection does not spread. Failure to do so could result in bacteria entering the bloodstream. This is a serious complication that can even be life threatening. In addition, cellulitis or abscess formation may occur.

Lymphangitis: prognosis

If there are no complications, the prognosis is good and antibiotics are effective in over 90% of cases, but full recovery may take weeks or even months.

Category:

Immune system