Lymphangitis laboratory findings

There are no diagnostic lab findings associated with lymphangitis. The presence of certain non-specific laboratory findings, in the presence of lymphangitis, may be suggestive of certain underlying causes. Examples of tests that may demonstrate abnormal findings include CBC, ESR, CRP, and serology titers.^[1]

There are no diagnostic lab findings associated with lymphangitis The presence of certain non-specific laboratory findings, in the presence of lymphangitis, may be suggestive of certain underlying causes. Routine laboratory studies should be correlated with a carefully collected history and a precise physical examination. Routine laboratory tests that may be ordered and their respective findings include:^{[2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9]}

• Eosinophilia may be suggestive of underlying parasitic infections.
• Elevated white blood cells with a left shift may be suggestive of an underlying infection.
• Microfilariae on giemsa stained, thin and thick blood film smears, are considered gold standard in diagnosis for filariasis

• C reactive protein over 13 mg/L
• CBC with marked left shift
• Elevated creatinine level
• 2 to 3 times the upper level of normal creatinine phosphokinase
• Low bicarbonate level

• Elevated ESR and CRP may be suggestive of an underlying infection or inflammatory condition

• F. tularensis titre
• Histoplasma titre

• Swab and aspirate taken from the primary site, should be sent for microscopy, as well as cultural and sensitivity.
• Microbiological investigations not only helps us to identify causative infectious organism, but also act as a guide to select appropriate antimicrobial

• Rarely, polymerase chain reaction(PCR) can be used in diagnosis of Nocardia, Tularemia, and Leshmania.

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