Introduction
The lymphatic system is a significant component of our immune system. Acute lymphangitis is commonly caused by gram-positive bacilli such as group A Streptococci in people with normal immunity.
What Is Acute Lymphangitis?
Acute lymphangitis is the inflammation of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a network of ducts, glands, organs, and cells. These glands are most apparent in the armpit, jaw, and groin area. These glands are also called nodes. The organs that make the lymphatic system are:
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Spleen - It is the organ present in the abdomen that purifies the blood.
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Tonsils - Tonsils are located in the throat.
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Thymus - It is located in the upper chest and helps the white blood cells to develop.
Lymphocytes are immune cells that are found in the bone marrow. These cells travel to the lymph nodes and other organs within the lymphatic system. They help the body against bacteria and viruses. Lymph, a clear white fluid, is also filtered by the lymphatic system. It contains bacteria-killing white blood cells. When these bacteria and viruses invade the vessels of the lymphatic system by infecting wounds or cutting, infectious lymphangitis occurs. The symptoms include chills, fever, and a general sense of illness. Usually, if treated quickly, the lymphangitis goes away easily with no severe ill effects. But if untreated, complications can occur, and the difficulty can become severe.
What Are the Causes of Lymphangitis?
The lymphatic system helps our body to fight infections. The lymphatic fluid contains fats, bacteria, and other waste products from the cells and tissues. The lymph nodes help by filtering these waste products out of the lymph fluid. As a result, they produce more white blood cells to fight against infections. Lymphangitis can occur when bacteria or virus invades the lymphatic system. The most common cause is a Streptococcal infection or Staphylococcal infection. Lymphangitis can occur if a person already has a skin infection or the condition worsens. The infection might enter the bloodstream and give rise to life-threatening complications like body-wide inflammation. The other conditions that increase the risk of acute lymphangitis include:
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Immunocompromised conditions.
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Immunodeficiency.
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Chronic steroid use.
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Infected surgical wounds.
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Severe untreated skin infections.
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Insect bites or stings.
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A bite from a cat or dog.
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A condition called sporotrichosis - A soil-borne fungal infection.
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Any kind of malignancy.
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Different types of cancers like lung, stomach, breast, rectal, pancreas, prostate, etc.
What Are the Symptoms of Lymphangitis?
The red streaks usually trace the skin's surface along the area of infection to the nearest lymph gland. The streaks may be tender and faint to touch and extend from a cut or a wound. In some cases, these streaks may form blisters. Other symptoms of acute lymphangitis include:
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Fever.
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Chills.
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Swollen lymph glands.
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Malaise.
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Long time to heal a wound.
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Swelling near the armpit and groin.
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Aching muscles.
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Loss of appetite.
What Is the Diagnosis of Acute Lymphangitis?
A general physical examination to feel the lymph node to check in case of any swelling will be performed by the healthcare provider. Then, specific tests can be ordered by the doctors, such as a biopsy and blood culture to reveal the cause of swelling or case of any infection.
What Is the Treatment of Acute Lymphangitis?
To avoid the spread of infection, the treatment should begin immediately. The doctor can recommend the following treatment options:
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In case of any bacterial infection, antibiotics will be advised. The medication will be given either by oral route or intravenous antimicrobial therapy directly into the veins.
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Pain killers.
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Anti-inflammatory medications.
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Surgical removal or debridement of a node causing an obstruction.
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Surgery to drain the abscess.
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To aid healing and ease the hot pain compress, it can be given at home to promote the blood flow and encourage healing.
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Try to keep the infected area elevated to reduce swelling and slow the spread of infection.
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One can take over-the-counter medicines like Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen in case of mild pain.
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Take warm showers.
People with weak immune systems, older and young adults, can take a longer time to heal. This is because some lymphangitis damages the skin, muscles, and other tissues, so it takes time to recover in such conditions. In addition, recurrent lymphangitis is possible in a person who has not undergone proper treatment for a previous infection. Also, people with weak immune systems are more prone to develop recurrent lymphangitis as their bodies are not able to fight against the infections.
What Are the Complications of Acute Lymphangitis?
Acute lymphangitis can spread quickly, which can lead to the following complications:
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Sepsis - It is a life-threatening body-wide infection.
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Bacteremia - Presence of bacteria in the blood.
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Cellulitis - It is a skin infection.
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Abscess - It is a painful collection of pus accompanied by inflammation and swelling.
If this bacteria enters the bloodstream, then the condition can be life-threatening. On noticing any of these symptoms, visit the healthcare provider immediately:
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If there is increasing swelling or pain present at the site of infection.
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Increasing red streaks.
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Fluid or pus oozing out of the lymph node.
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Fever over 38 degrees Celsius for more than two days.
Most people have a full recovery from lymphangitis if no complications occur. However, it may take a few weeks or months to fully recover.
Conclusion
Healing depends upon the type, cause, and spread of the infection. However, prompt and immediate lymphangitis treatment can help prevent further complications. So visit the health care provider immediately as soon as one observes any symptoms.
