Lymphatic vessel inflammation of humans and horses most commonly caused by Streptococcus but also by other bacteria, yeast fungus, and cancer. See Streptococcus General.BloodEncyclopedia Entry for Lymphangitis :Lymphangitis. The lymph system is a network of lymph nodes, lymph ducts, lymph vessels, and organs that produce and move a fluid called lymph from tissues to the bloodstream. Lymphangitis most often results from an acute streptococcal infection of the skin. Less often, it is caused by a staphylococcal infection. The infection causes the lymph vessels to become inflamed. Lymphangitis may be a sign that a skin infection is getting worse. The bacteria can spread into the blood, and cause life-threatening problems.Symptoms may include: Fever and chills Enlarged and tender lymph nodes (glands) -- usually in the elbow, armpit, or groin General ill feeling (malaise) Headache Loss of appetite Muscle aches Red streaks from the infected area to the armpit or groin (may be faint or obvious) Throbbing pain along the affected area.The doctor will perform a physical exam, which includes feeling your lymph nodes and examining your skin. The doctor may look for signs of injury around swollen lymph nodes. A biopsy and culture of the affected area may reveal the cause of the inflammation. A blood culture may be done to see if the infection has spread to the blood.Lymphangitis may spread within hours. Treatment should begin right away. Treatment may include: Antibiotics by mouth or IV (vein) to treat any infection Pain medicine to control pain Anti-inflammatory medicines to reduce inflammation and swelling Warm, moist compresses to reduce inflammation and pain Surgery may be needed to drain an abscess.Prompt treatment with antibiotics usually leads to a complete recovery. It may take weeks, or even months, for swelling to disappear. The amount of time it takes to recover depends on the cause.Health problems that may occur include: Abscess (collection of pus) Cellulitis (a skin infection) Sepsis (a general or bloodstream infection).Call your health care provider or go to the emergency room if you have symptoms of lymphangitis.Inflamed lymph vessels; Inflammation - lymph vessels; Infected lymph vessels; Infection - lymph vessels.Staphylococcal lymphangitis Staphylococcal lymphangitis.Pasternack MS, Swartz MN. Lymphadenitis and lymphangitis.