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Phlegmon overview

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Overview

Phlegmon is a spreading diffuse inflammatory process with formation of suppurative/purulent exudate or pus.

Pathophysiology

Pathophysiology

Factors affecting the development of phlegmons are virulence of bacteria and human’s immunity strength defenses.

Causes

Causes

Phlegmon is commonly caused by bacteriastaphylococci, streptococci, pneumococci, spore and non-spore forming anaerobes, etc.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis

History and Symptoms

Systemic features of infection like increased body temperature (up to 38-40°C), general fatigue, chills, sweatings, headache, and loss of appetite may be present.

Physical Examination

Inflammatory signs – dolor (localized pain), calor (increase local tissue temperature), rubor (skin redness/hyperemia), tumor (either clear or non-clear bordered tissue swelling), functio laesa (diminish affected function) may be present. Severity of patient condition with phlegmons is directly proportional to the degree of intoxication level i.e the severe the condition, the higher degree of intoxication level.

Laboratory Findings

The main goal of treatment is to remove the cause of phlegmonous process in order to achieve effective treatment and prevention of recurrence. If patients condition is mild and the signs of inflammatory process is presence without signs of infiltrates, then conservative treatment with antibiotics is sufficient.

Treatment

Treatment

Medical Therapy

The main goal of treatment is to remove the cause of phlegmonous process in order to achieve effective treatment and prevention of recurrence. If patients condition is mild and the signs of inflammatory process is presence without signs of infiltrates, then conservative treatment with antibiotics is sufficient.

References

References

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