A doctor has urged people not to ignore a red line on their skin that could be a symptom of a medical emergency. According to Doctor Joe Whittington, from the US, red streaking could signal a dangerous infection.
Responding to another content creator’s video on social media platform TikTok that showed a thick red line travelling from the toes up the leg, he explained how this could be a symptom of lymphangitis.
If not treated quickly this infection can lead to abscesses forming or even sepsis, he said.
Dr Whittington, who is better known online as Dr Joe MD, said: “If you see this red streaking, it’s a bad sign.
“This is something called lymphangitis and it occurs when there’s a localised infection.
“But you see red streaking that courses up from the infection side. This means there’s been infection of the lymphatic system, which means it’s no longer localised, it’s now spreading throughout the body.
“This is a medical emergency that needs to be treated with antibiotics.”
In the caption below he explained more about this condition.
“Lymphangitis is an inflammation of the lymphatic vessels, often caused by a bacterial infection, typically streptococcus or staphylococcus,” Dr Joe said.
“It usually presents as red, painful streaks on the skin extending from the site of infection toward nearby lymph nodes, which may also become swollen and tender.
“Fever, chills, and a general sense of illness may accompany these symptoms.
“Prompt treatment with antibiotics is essential to prevent the infection from spreading and to avoid potential complications such as abscess formation or sepsis.”
The Cleveland Clinic lists the following as symptoms of lymphangitis:
- Red streaks on your skin
- Headaches
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- A slow-healing wound
- Swollen lymph nodes in your groin or armpit.
The clinic warns that lymphangitis moves quickly.
“In less than 24 hours, an infection can spread from the initial wound to several areas of your lymphatic system,” it says.
“Left untreated, the infection can enter your bloodstream and cause sepsis.”
It adds: “If you notice red streaks on your skin or other symptoms of lymphangitis, tell a healthcare provider immediately. Prompt treatment can keep the infection from spreading.”
Causes of lymphangitis include:
- Skin infections like cellulitis
- Puncture wounds
- Bug bites or stings
- Large wounds that need stitches (including surgical incisions)
- Sporotrichosis (a common fungal skin infection)
- Less commonly, lymphangitis is a complication of certain cancerous and noncancerous tumours.
