LECTURE XLV 

 LYMPHANGITIS (ELEPHANT LEG) 



In general, lymphangitis is an inflammation of any lymphatic 

 tissues, but in veterinary practice it usually refers to those of 

 the hind leg of the horse. It appears suddenly and is quite 

 painful, although rarely fatal. 



Cause and history. — This disease usually appears among 

 heavy horses of sluggish temperament, such horses seeming much 

 more susceptible than others, and it almost invariably occurs 

 among those that are full fed and have had a period of idleness, 

 perhaps of only one day. In some cases, it results from a local 

 infection, in the foot, for example. 



Symptoms. — This disease usually makes its appearance with 

 a chill, followed by fever. The horse is uneasy and in evident 

 discomfort. A sudden extensive swelling appears on the upper 

 inside portion of the hind limb. The swelling increases grad- 

 ually, extending around the limb and downward. The lymph 

 vessels are swollen and corded. Lymph glands high up in the 

 inguinal region or groin become involved; and these may even 

 develop abscesses, but this is rare. Actual death of the patient 

 from septic infection may even occur. 



The horse is quite lame, and the affected limb is very sensitive 

 to the touch. He perspires freely; the pulse is increased; res- 

 piration is somewhat hurried and the temperature is raised. 

 The bowels are constipated and the urine is usually dark, 

 colored, and scanty. 



Most of the swelling in the limb gradually subsides, and as 

 this general swelling goes down, the inflamed lymph vessels 

 appear as long, cordy swellings. Usually some thickening and 

 enlargement of the leg remains and this disease is apt to recur, 

 each time leaving a somewhat increased enlargement until finally 

 there develops what is commonly known as elephant leg. 



Lymphangitis might be confused with simple dropsy or with 

 glanders. It can be distinguished from simple dropsy, however, 

 by its acute pain, its fever, lameness, and cordy swellings; and 



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