Phlegmon
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Phlegmon | |
---|---|
Other names | Inflammation |
Causes | Bacterial infection, acute pancreatitis |
Differential diagnosis | Abscess |
A phlegmon is a localized area of
Signs and symptoms
As with any form of inflammation, phlegmon presents with inflammatory signs
Cause
Commonly caused by bacterial infection, as in the case of cellulitis or diverticulitis. Non-infectious causes of phlegmon include acute pancreatitis, where inflammation is caused by leaking of pancreatic digestive enzymes into the surrounding tissues.
Factors affecting the development of phlegmon are virulence of bacteria and immunity strength.
Diagnosis
In modern medicine, phlegmon is mostly used descriptively in the fields of surgery/surgical pathology and medical imaging. The ultrasound and CT imaging findings of phlegmon are those of focal tissue edema, with no loculated fluid collection to suggest the formation of an abscess.
Treatment
Since phlegmon describes an area of inflammation, and not a specific disease process, the treatment depends on the cause and severity of the inflammation. Bacterial infections such as cellulitis may be treated by antibiotic therapy, depending on the severity.
See also
References
- ^ Lawrence, William (April 17, 1830). "Lectures on Surgery: Diseases of the Cellular System". London Medical Gazette – via Google Books.