It is usually a mere erythema, but in some instances lymphangitis, lymphadenitis, phlegmonous inflammation, with diffuse suppuration, may result.

Lymphadenitis.—Inflammation of lymph glands results from the advent of an irritant, usually bacterial or toxic, brought to the glands by the afferent lymph vessels.

The trite phrase that "the tissues are bathed in lymph" should make clear the reason for the frequent occurrence of infectious lymphangitis and lymphadenitis.