Lymphagitis and cellulitis SDL

Question 1

Describe the disease process involved in cellulitis

Answer 1

Inflammation of subcutaneous tissues (+/- infection)
Site of bacterial entry may be a wound, skin infection (e.g. Mud fever) or deeper infection

Localised or spread through limb

Question 2

List the clinical signs of cellulitis

Answer 2

Inflammation- heat, pain, swelling
+/- pyrexia
varying degree of lameness
elevated inflammatory markers

Question 3

Describe how to approach cellulitis case

Answer 3

1. Identify underlying cause
2. Rule out complicating factors
3. Treat underlying case
4. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatories

Question 4

Decsribe the disease process in lymphangitis

Answer 4

Inflammation of lymphatic system of limb
Impaired lymph drainage -> build up of fluid in limb

Question 5

List the clinical signs of Lymphangitis

Answer 5

Diffuse soft tissue swelling
Sometimes, prominent lymphatics
Can progress to serum oozing through skin
May have abrasions / site of infection

Question 5

Decsribe how to tell difference between cellulitis and lymphangitis

Answer 5

Lymphangitis:
- Usually not sore to touch
- Usually not pyrexic

Question 6

Are forlimbs or hindlimbs more likely to be affected by lymphangitis

Answer 6

Hindlimbs

Question 7

Describe how to approach a lymphangitis case

Answer 7

1. Identify and treat underlying cause.
2. Antibiotics and steroids (dexamethasone IV)
3. Physical therapy (cold hosing, bandaging, walking exercise)

Treat aggressively