Lymphangitis

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Lymphangitis
Lymphangitis of the arm
Synonyms	"Blood poisoning", "Blood poisoning infection"
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Red streaks on the skin, fever, chills, malaise
Complications	Sepsis, abscess formation
Onset	Rapid
Duration	Varies
Types	N/A
Causes	Bacterial infection, commonly Streptococcus or Staphylococcus
Risks	Skin injury, immunocompromised state
Diagnosis	Physical examination, blood culture
Differential diagnosis	Cellulitis, thrombophlebitis
Prevention	Proper wound care, hygiene
Treatment	Antibiotics, analgesics
Medication	Penicillin, cephalosporins
Prognosis	Good with treatment
Frequency	Common
Deaths	N/A

Lymphangitis

Lymphangitis is an inflammation of the lymphatic channels that occurs as a result of infection at a site distal to the channel. The most common cause of lymphangitis in humans is Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus), but it can also be caused by other bacteria.

Causes

The most common cause of lymphangitis is an infection that has spread from a skin wound. Other causes can include bacteria such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, or Pasteurella. In rare cases, lymphangitis can be caused by fungi or parasites.

Symptoms

Symptoms of lymphangitis can include red streaks extending from the infected area toward the chest, fever, chills, and lymphadenopathy or swollen lymph nodes. Other symptoms can include malaise, anorexia, and myalgia.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of lymphangitis is usually based on the characteristic clinical presentation of red streaks extending from a wound, and tenderness of the surrounding skin and lymph nodes. In some cases, blood tests may be used to identify the bacteria causing the infection.

Treatment

Treatment for lymphangitis typically involves antibiotics to fight the bacterial infection. In some cases, pain relief medication may also be prescribed. If the infection is severe, hospitalization may be required.

See also

• Lymphatic system
• Lymphadenopathy
• Lymphedema

References

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