Dept of general medicine

1. Lymphedema & Lymphangitis
Clinical Features, Pathophysiology &
Management

2. Introduction
• • Lymphedema: Chronic swelling due to
lymphatic obstruction.
• • Lymphangitis: Acute inflammation of
lymphatic vessels.
• • Both conditions affect lymphatic circulation
and immunity.

3. Clinical Features of Lymphedema
• • Progressive, painless swelling (especially in
limbs).
• • Pitting edema initially, later non-pitting.
• • Skin thickening (peau d'orange), fibrosis.
• • Increased risk of infections (cellulitis,
lymphangitis).

4. Pathophysiology of Lymphedema
• • Lymphatic obstruction → impaired drainage.
• • Protein-rich fluid accumulation → chronic
inflammation.
• • Fibrosis and adipose tissue deposition →
skin thickening.
• • Increased susceptibility to secondary
infections.

5. Management of Lymphedema
• • Conservative: Compression therapy,
physiotherapy (MLD), exercise.
• • Pharmacological: Diuretics (limited role),
antibiotics for infections.
• • Surgical: Lymphatic bypass, debulking
procedures (if severe).
• • Patient education: Hygiene, skin care,
avoiding trauma.

6. Clinical Features of Lymphangitis
• • Red streaks along lymphatic channels.
• • Tender, swollen lymph nodes
(lymphadenopathy).
• • Fever, chills, malaise (systemic symptoms).
• • Pain and warmth over affected area.

7. Pathophysiology of Lymphangitis
• • Bacterial invasion (Streptococcus,
Staphylococcus) through skin injury.
• • Infection spreads along lymphatic vessels.
• • Inflammatory response → vessel dilation,
immune cell infiltration.
• • Can progress to sepsis if untreated.

8. Management of Lymphangitis
• • Antibiotics: Penicillin, cephalosporins for
bacterial infections.
• • Anti-inflammatory drugs for symptom relief.
• • Warm compresses, elevation to reduce
swelling.
• • Surgical drainage if abscess formation
occurs.

9. Conclusion
• • Lymphedema: Chronic lymphatic obstruction
→ swelling, fibrosis.
• • Lymphangitis: Acute bacterial infection →
inflammation, systemic signs.
• • Early diagnosis and treatment prevent
complications.
• • Management focuses on symptom relief,
infection control, and prevention.