Lymphadenitis and lymphangitis

Causes and Risks:
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels (channels), glands (nodes) and organs. It functions as part of the immune system to protect against and fight infection, inflammation, and cancers. It also functions in the transport of fluids, fats, proteins , and other substances within the body. The lymph glands, or lymph nodes, are small structures that filter the lymph fluid. There are many white blood cells in the lymph nodes to help fight infection.

Lymphadenitis and lymphangitis are common complications of bacterial infections. Lymphadenitis involves inflammation of the lymph glands . This may occur if the glands are overwhelmed by bacteria, virus, fungi, or other organisms and infection develops within the glands. It may also occur as a result of circulating cancer cells or other inflammatory conditions. The location of the affected gland(s) is usually associated with the site of the underlying infection, tumor , or inflammation. It commonly is a result of a cellulitis or other bacteria infection (usually infection by streptococci or staphylococci).

Lymphangitis involves the lymph vessels/channels, with inflammation of the channel and resultant pain and systemic and localized symptoms. It commonly results from an acute streptococcal or staphylococcal infection, such as from an insect or animal bite or sting.

The infection of lymphadenitis and lymphangitis may include formation of abscesses and cellulitis. It may progress rapidly, spread to the bloodstream within hours, and may be fatal. Lymphangitis may resemble thrombophlebitis .

Prevention:
Good general health and hygiene are helpful in the prevention of any infection.

Symptoms:
LYMPHADENITIS
  • lymph nodes may be swollen, tender, and hard
  • lymph nodes feel smooth or irregular to touch, or soft and "rubbery" (fluctuant) if an abscess has formed
  • the skin over a node may be reddened and hot

LYMPHANGITIS

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:



Signs and Tests:
An examination shows affected lymph nodes and/or lymph vessels and may indicate the cause. The health care provider may look for evidence of trauma around enlarged or swollen nodes.

A biopsy and culture of the affected area, channel, or node may reveal the cause of the inflammation. Blood cultures may reveal spread of infection to the bloodstream.

Treatment:
Lymphadenitis and lymphangitis may spread within hours. Spreading to the bloodstream may be fatal. Treatment should begin promptly.

Antibiotics are used to control infection. Analgesics may be needed to control pain with lymphangitis. Anti-inflammatory medications may help reduce inflammation and swelling . Aspirin may be recommended as an analgesic , anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic ( fever reducing) medication. (Consult the health care provider before giving aspirin to children!)

An abscess may require surgical drainage.

Hot moist compresses may help to reduce inflammation and pain. Elevate the area to reduce swelling. Immobilize the area to reduce pain and spread of infection.

Prognosis:
Prompt treatment with antibiotics may result in complete recovery, with symptoms controlled within a few days.

Complications:



Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider or go to the emergency room if symptoms indicate lymphadenitis or lymphangitis.


The lymphatic system filters fluid from around cells. It is an important part of the immune system. When people refer to swollen glands in the neck, they are usually referring to swollen lymph nodes. Common areas where lymph nodes can be easily felt, especially if they are enlarged, are: the groin, armpits (axilla), above the clavicle (supraclavicular), in the neck (cervical), and the back of the head just above hairline (occipital).



Inflammation of the lymph system is a common complication following a bacterial infection. This picture shows inflammation of the lymph system around the joint of the little finger. The organism responsible for this lymphangitis is of the staphylococcal family; therefore it is called staphylococcal lymphangitis.