ULCERATIVE LYMPHANGITIS

• Ulcerative lymphangitis is inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, usually as a result of bacterial invasion.
• In most cases the bacteria enter the lymphatic vessels through a wound on the lower leg.
• This condition is more likely when the normal lymphatic flow is slowed by inactivity or obstructed by injury.
• The inflammation results from bacterial infection further obstructs lymphatic flow.
• This process may obstruct the vein which causes further leakage of fluids into the tissues.
• As the result the leg become swollen ,which is why the common name "big leg".
• If the immune system cannot control the infection the abcess break open in several places and giving the ulcerative conditions.

Treatment

• Often the invading bacteria is staphylococcus aureus .
• This organism is difficult to kill because it has become resistant to most antibiotics
• Bacterial culture and Antibiotic sensitivity testing is important to identity which organism is causing inflections.
• Oral antibiotics, poulticing and physical therapy help to resolve the infection.
• NSAIDs are commonly given to reduce the inflammation and pain .

Reference

Lameness

Equine Research

Christine King and Richard Mansmann