Page 737 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
P. 737
LYMPHANGITIS
Inflammation of the lymphatic vessels is known as lymphangitis. It causes painful swelling
VetBooks.ir of the limbs and one or both of the hind limbs are most commonly affected.
Causes
The legs swell due to restriction of lymphatic drainage which occurs as a result of
inflammation of the lymphatic vessels. Extra fluid collects in the tissues under the skin. The
condition is usually caused by bacterial infection which has entered through a small skin
wound on the lower leg (Figure 16.6). It can develop secondary to cellulitis which is
inflammation of the loose tissues beneath the skin caused by bacterial infection.
