Lymphangitis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Lymphangitis is an inflammation in the lymphatic system caused by invading pathogens or toxic substances. It is treated with antibiotics and usually heals completely. If the cause is not treated, the disease can become chronic.

What is lymphangitis?

Lymphangitis is inflammation in the lymphatic vessels. These run in lymphatic channels through the body and carry lymph, a yellowish fluid that contains lymph plasma and lymphocytes (white blood cells). The lymph is transported to various lymph nodes where it is cleared of harmful substances and purified. The lymphatic vessels are an essential part of the human immune system. The most important lymph nodes are easily palpable on the neck, in the groin and under the armpits. In lymphangitis, pathogens or harmful substances, such as snake venom or chemical substances, enter the lymphatic system and cause inflammation. A distinction is made between acute and chronic lymphangitis. The acute form usually originates from an inflamed wound, while chronic lymphangitis results from tissue changes in the lymphatic vessels.

Causes

The cause of acute lymphangitis is either inflamed tissue in the immediate vicinity of the lymphatics or pathogens or harmful substances that have directly invaded the lymphatic system. In acute lymphangitis, there is usually bacterial inflammation of the skin or adjacent organs. It is most often caused by staphylococci or streptococci. Especially when pus forms or an abscess develops, the inflammation can spread to the lymphatic channels. But acute lymphangitis can also be caused by parasites or fungi, but this is rather rare. Another possible trigger is insect or snake venom. Chronic lymphangitis can develop as a result of acute lymphangitis that has not healed. However, it can also result from a defect in the lymphatic system. When the flow in the lymphatic channels is disturbed, congestion and tissue changes occur, which can trigger inflammatory processes. Finally, chronic lymphangitis can also be caused by surgical procedures in which parts of the lymphatic system had to be removed.

Typical symptoms and signs

  • Red stripe pointing in the direction of the heart (inflamed lymphatic vessel).
  • Lymph node swelling
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Pus blisters
  • Lymphedema
  • Heavy legs
  • Redness of the skin
  • Itching

Diagnosis and course

Schematic diagram showing the anatomy and structure of lymph nodes. Click to enlarge. Symptoms of acute lymphangitis initially include fatigue and exhaustion, fever and chills, and sometimes tachycardia (rapid heartbeat). The area around the infected wound is swollen, warm, and reddened, and the affected part of the body is painful. A red stripe extends from the wound toward the heart. This stripe is often commonly assumed to be a sign of blood poisoning, but it is the reddish inflamed lymphatic track that is visible through the skin. The lymph nodes in the immediate vicinity are swollen and respond to pressure with pain. In chronic lymphangitis, the symptoms of the acute form recur and, as it progresses, lymphedema (accumulation of fluid in the lymphatic vessels) often develops, which can be seen by swelling in the affected area. The skin changes and itchy eczema develops. Lymphangitis is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and medical history. A blood test can determine if there is inflammation in the body. With further physical examinations, with sonography and computed tomography, the doctor can find out what caused the lymphangitis.

Complications

Lymphangitis causes various symptoms, which can further vary in severity. In most cases, those affected suffer from fever and severe fatigue in the process. Fatigue also occurs and those affected no longer take an active part in life. Likewise, there are chills and further itching or redness on the skin. The patient’s legs feel heavy due to lymphangitis and there is pain in the extremities.Furthermore, heart palpitations may also occur, thereby significantly reducing the patient’s quality of life. The lymph nodes themselves may show a pressure pain. Lymphangitis is treated with the help of antibiotics, and there are no particular complications or limitations. As a rule, the symptoms disappear relatively quickly and no further symptoms appear. If treatment is not given, a chronic course of the disease may develop. The patient’s life expectancy is usually not reduced by this disease. In severe cases, abscesses may need to be removed by surgery.

When should you see a doctor?

Lymphangitis is a serious disease of the lymphatic system. Early diagnosis prevents serious complications and greatly improves the chances of recovery. Anyone who suspects they have inflammation of the lymphatics or another disease of the lymphatic system should talk to their primary care physician. The physician can quickly diagnose the disease on the basis of the clear symptoms and suggest a suitable therapy. At the latest, when the characteristic stripe migrating towards the heart is noticed, medical help is necessary. Acute lymphangitis is often noticed by the affected person himself, while the chronic form shows no clear symptoms at the beginning. Both forms must be diagnosed and treated as early as possible. Patients over 40 or with previous cancer treatment are among the risk groups and should inform the physician of any abnormalities. The general practitioner will consult a lymphologist and other internists depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms. If the symptoms are associated with miscarriage or abdominal pregnancy, the gynecologist must be consulted.

Treatment and therapy

Treatment of acute lymphangitis depends on its cause. If the inflammation originates from an infected wound or organ, antibiotics are administered to control the infection. In most cases, this drug therapy is sufficient. In addition, the affected part of the body should be immobilized, cooled and possibly disinfecting compresses applied. The application of anti-inflammatory ointments also contributes to healing. If the lymphangitis is already advanced and an abscess with pus has formed, it must be removed in a surgical procedure. If the lymph vessels are severely damaged by the inflammation, the affected parts must be removed. If edema has formed in chronic lymphangitis, lymphatic drainage is often used as a therapy. Here, a special technique is used to transport the fluid accumulated in the tissue to the lymph nodes. In addition, special gymnastics helps with chronic lymphangitis, which prevents new congestion.

Outlook and prognosis

The prognosis of lymphangitis is favorable. There is an inflammatory disease that can be cured by the administration of medication. If left untreated, there will be an increase in symptoms. Nevertheless, with a healthy and stable immune system, a cure is possible without the administration of drugs. Under these circumstances, the healing process is prolonged and the risk of complications is increased. If the disease is diagnosed in the early stages, therapy can be started immediately. Under optimal conditions, the patient is normally discharged from treatment as cured within a few days or weeks. In the case of severe damage to the lymphatic vessels or a weakened immune system, delays may occur. People who have an immature or very weak endogenous immune system are often subject to a severe course of disease or suffer a spread of inflammation in the organism. This can lead to further diseases, which must be taken into account in the prognosis. If drug therapy is not sufficient, further treatment measures, such as lymphatic drainage, can be initiated. In very rare cases, pus may form and enter the blood system. There is a possibility of developing sepsis. Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition for the affected person and requires intensive medical care.

Prevention

You can prevent lymphangitis by treating wounds and injuries properly to prevent them from becoming infected.If inflammation already exists, one should immediately consult a doctor. With the right therapy, lymphangitis can be prevented.

Aftercare

The quality of life of sufferers is significantly reduced by the disease of lymphangitis. Sufferers are permanently tied to the help and support of family members, as everyday life can no longer be managed independently. Therefore, aftercare focuses on the complete recovery of the accustomed daily routine. Once treatment with the help of antibiotics has been completed, a gentle mode should still be followed so as not to overstrain the body. Plenty of sleep and sufficient exercise help with recovery. Normally, pain disappears after treatment, so sufferers should focus fully on strengthening their well-being. Immune-strengthening sports exercises such as yoga or walking are recommended. The life expectancy of sufferers is not shortened by lymphangitis.

What you can do yourself

Lymphangitis can be treated relatively well in most cases, and treatment can also be supported with self-help resources. However, it is not possible to treat lymphangitis using self-help remedies alone. If the disease occurs due to a wound, the affected person is dependent on taking antibiotics. Furthermore, the patient should protect the wound from inflammation or other infections and therefore cover it with a sterile dressing. Furthermore, immobilization of the affected region is also advisable. Any pain that may occur can be relieved by cooling. It should be noted here that the cooling material is not placed directly on the affected area to avoid burns. If the lymphangitis progresses further or if pus forms, however, a doctor should always be consulted, as surgical intervention is usually necessary in this case. Since lymphangitis can also restrict the patient’s everyday life in some cases, those affected are dependent on the help of other people. In this context, especially the help of friends or one’s own family has a very positive effect on the course of the disease and can possibly also prevent psychological discomfort.