Contents
Acute lymphangitis is the most common complication of bacterial infections in the lower extremities. The ailment attacks the lymphatic system, which is the main component of the immune system of every human being. The lower limbs are most often affected, but can also affect the upper limbs. Diagnosis is not a problem because inflammation has its characteristic symptoms.
What is the lymphatic system?
Everyone’s lymphatic system consists of cells, organs, ducts and nodes that are scattered throughout the body. It protects the body against infections, distributes and balances body fluids. The most visible lymph nodes are those in the armpits, around the jaw and in the groin. The organs that make up our lymphatic system are primarily: the spleen, almonds, bone marrow and the thymus, which helps to produce white blood cells. When the lymphatic system works well, we do not even think about its existence, only when it is attacked – we feel much worse. During infection, the lymph nodes become enlarged, which signals the presence of bacteria, viruses, and, less frequently, cancer.
Assessment of the lymphatic system
Ultrasound is a simple, useful and non-invasive test that helps in the assessment of the lymphatic system. It can be performed on the lymph nodes in the neck or groin. Most often, however, this examination is performed to assess the condition of the abdominal cavity, then the doctor looks for the affected lymph nodes, the changed spleen and the liver. This method allows you to confirm or rule out the diagnosis made earlier on the basis of a physical examination and a blood test.
What is acute lymphangitis?
Acute lymphangitis occurs when bacteria and viruses attack the lymph vessels as a result of an infected cut or wound. This is a complication of a bacterial infection. This ailment most often affects the lower limbs, then delicate red streaks appear around the wound, directed to the nearest lymph nodes. In addition, the patient may have chills, high temperature and general malaise. The diagnosis of acute lymphangitis is straightforward and, if left untreated, can have serious consequences. Treatment is usually with antibiotic therapy.
Acute lymphangitis – causes
Acute lymphangitis occurs when bacteria and viruses enter the lymphatic channels. Most often this is because of an cut that causes an infection (usually staphylococcus) that does not get better. The bacteria entering the bloodstream can lead to serious complications such as sepsis. The following are factors that increase your risk of acute lymphangitis:
- decreased immunity,
- patients with diabetes,
- Chickenpox,
- chronic steroid use,
- bitten by animals.
Acute lymphangitis – symptoms
In acute lymphangitis, painful linear redness appears along the course of the affected lymphatic vessel, accompanied by lymphoedema and regional lymphadenopathy. This is the first and most characteristic symptom of the disease. Other symptoms include:
- high temperature,
- chills,
- lack of appetite
- general feeling of being unwell
- muscle pain,
- headache.
Diagnosis of the disease
The diagnosis of acute lymphangitis is fairly simple, and the first alarming sign is lymphadenopathy. After palpation, your doctor will order additional blood tests to reveal inflammation in your body.
Treatment of acute lymphangitis
Treatment should be started as soon as possible to prevent the disease from spreading. In the treatment of acute lymphangitis, patients most often take:
- antibiotics
- painkillers,
- anti-inflammatory preparations.
If there is a complication in the form of an abscess – surgical treatment is required.
Note: The infected area should be cared for and cared for properly, this will help reduce swelling and slow the spread of the disease.
Acute lymphangitis and complications
Lymphangitis can cause the following complications:
- sepsis – a whole-body infection that is life-threatening,
- cellulitis,
- bacteria entering the blood (bacteraemia),
- abscess formation – a build-up of pus that causes pain, swelling and inflammation ..
The content of the medTvoiLokony website is intended to improve, not replace, the contact between the Website User and their doctor. The website is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Before following the specialist knowledge, in particular medical advice, contained on our Website, you must consult a doctor. The Administrator does not bear any consequences resulting from the use of information contained on the Website. Do you need a medical consultation or an e-prescription? Go to halodoctor.pl, where you will get online help – quickly, safely and without leaving your home.