In addition, a general ill feeling, muscle aches, headache, chills, and loss of appetite may be felt. If lymphangitis is suspected, the person should call his or her doctor immediately or go to an emergency room. Acute lymphangitis could be diagnosed by the family doctor, infectious disease specialist, or an emergency room doctor. The painful, red streaks just below the skin surface and the high fever are diagnostic of acute lymphangitis. A sample of blood would be taken for culture to determine whether the bacteria have entered the bloodstream.
Diagnosis is immediate because it is based primarily on the symptoms.
Most insurance policies should cover the expenses for the diagnosis and treatment of acute lymphangitis. The only treatment for acute lymphangitis is to give very large doses of an antibiotic, usually penicillin, through the vein. Growing streptococcal bacteria are usually eliminated rapidly and easily by penicillin. The antibiotic clindamycin may be included in the treatment to kill any streptococci which are not growing and are in a resting state. Aspirin or other medications which reduce the pain and the fever may also be given.