The lymphatic system is a part of the immune system. It helps fight against infection and inflammation. It consists of lymph glands (lymph nodes) throughout the body. Lymph channels or vessels carry lymph fluid from parts of the body to nearby lymph glands to be filtered.
Lymphangitis is an inflammation of lymph channels. It may be due to infections or noninfectious causes. The infection may be caused by infected lymph fluid traveling from a site of infection. Or it's from a break in the skin where germs were able to enter. Noninfectious causes include cancers and noncancerous (benign) tumors that may block the lymph vessels causing inflammation.
Symptoms are tender, red streaks on the skin. These are often on the legs or arms. They often start near the area of infection or the entry point for the germs. Sometimes the red streaks are only on the upper leg or upper arm, many inches from where the infection started. The spot where the infection started may not be obvious.
The condition can become very serious if not treated. Any apparent infection and the lymphangitis are treated with antibiotics. If you have an abscess, it may be drained.