Cellulitis is sometimes misdiagnosed as Lymphedema

It has been reported that some patients have been misdiagnosed with Lymphedema, when in fact the correct diagnosis in their specific case was Cellulitis.

Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin condition that affects the skin of the lower legs when a crack or break allows bacteria to enter the skin. The skin appears red, swollen and painful and warm. It can be misdiagnosed as other dermatological conditions such as venous eczema, lipodermatosclerosis, irritant dermatitis and lymphedema. If left untreated due to misdiagnosis, the infection can spread to the blood causing sepsis a life threating condition.

Always consult your doctor or health professional, and do not self diagnose.

Symptoms can include:

Expanding red area of skin, swelling, red spots, blisters, skin dimpling, tenderness, pain, warmth, fever

Symptoms are a guideline only and may apply to either the diagnosis or the reported misdiagnosis, or both. Consult your specialist for further information.

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