If lymphangitis is suspected, the person should call his or her doctor
immediately or go to an emergency room. Acute lymphangitis could be
diagnosed by the family doctor, infectious disease specialist, or an
emergency room doctor. The painful, red streaks just below the skin
surface and the high fever are diagnostic of acute lymphangitis. A sample
of blood would be taken for culture to determine whether the bacteria
have entered the bloodstream. A biopsy (removal of a piece of infected
tissue) sample may be taken for culture to identify which type of bacteria
is causing the infection. Diagnosis is immediate because it is based
primarily on the symptoms. Most insurance policies should cover the
expenses for the diagnosis and treatment of acute lymphangitis.