ACUTE LYMPHANGITIS.—This is an inflammation of the lymphatic vessels of one or both hind limbs. The attack comes on suddenly and usually occurs in connection with rest, and in horses that are of slow, quiet temperament. The exciting cause is an infection of the part with bacteria, the infection probably occurring through some abrasion or small wound in the skin.
The local symptoms are swelling, tenderness and lameness in the affected limb. The animal may refuse to support its weight on the affected limb. The lymphatic glands in the region are swollen, and the swelling of the limb pits on pressure. In the chronic form of the disease, the regions of the cannon and foot remain permanently enlarged, and the swelling is more firm than it is in the acute form (Fig. 24).
The general symptoms are high body temperature, rapid pulse and the partial or complete loss of appetite.
The following treatment is recommended: Exercise is indicated in cases that are not sufficiently advanced to cause severe lameness, or inability to use the limb; rest and the application of woollen bandages wrung out of a hot water solution of liquor cresolis compound are recommended; Epsom salts in one-half pound doses may be given and repeated in two or three days; a very light diet of soft feed should be given; liniments should not be applied until the soreness in the limb has subsided; iodide of potassium may be given twice daily with the feed.
QUESTIONS
1. What are the functions of the blood and lymph?
2. State the changes occurring in the circulation in inflamed tissue.
3. What is palpitation? Give the causes and treatment.
4. What are the common causes of pericarditis?
5. Give the causes and treatment of acute lymphangitis.