Lymphangitis is a bacterial infection of the lymph vessels that can spread quickly and cause red, painful streaks under the skin. It can be caused by various entry methods and can lead to abscesses and tissue destruction. Streptococcus pyogenes and Staph bacteria are common causes. Some individuals, such as those who have had a mastectomy or leg vein removal, are more at risk.
Lymphangitis is an infection of the lymph vessels, an important component of the immune system’s filtration process, caused by a bacterial infection. Left untreated, lymphangitis can spread rapidly through the bloodstream and is potentially fatal.
Lymphangitis is identified by red, painful streaks that appear under the skin’s surface. These strips typically go from the site of the original infection to the groin or armpit area. The whole area can swell and blisters can also occur. The sufferer may also experience fever, body aches, chills, headache and loss of appetite.
The bacteria that cause the infection can enter the body in a variety of ways. Common entry methods include scrapes, cuts, surgical wounds, insect bites, and any other type of skin wound. When bacteria successfully enter the lymphatic system, they multiply and move throughout the system.
The most common bacterium that causes lymphangitis is Streptococcus pyogenes, which is also the bacterium that causes sore throats. It also causes infections of the spinal cord, heart and lungs. Because of its ability to lead to infection, this bacterium is also sometimes referred to as a “flesh-eating bacterium”. Staph bacteria can also cause the condition.
When bacteria move through the lymphatic system, they cause inflammation of the vessels. This inflammation causes the red streaks that are characteristic of lymphangitis. Because the bacteria grow so rapidly, the immune system is unable to respond quickly enough to prevent infection from forming.
Left untreated, the bacterial infection can eventually destroy the tissue in the area where the infection occurred. This causes an abscess to form, which is a painful lump filled with pus. The lower layers of the skin can also become infected, which is how the infection enters the bloodstream.
Some individuals are more at risk of developing lymphangitis than others. Women who have had a mastectomy, which involves the removal of a breast and lymph nodes, are more prone to developing the disease. Individuals who have had a leg vein removed to perform coronary artery bypass surgery are also at increased risk.
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