Acute lymphangitis is an inflammatory process involving the subcutaneous lymphatic channels. It is due most often to group A streptococcus (GAS) but occasionally may be caused by Staphylococcus aureus; rarely, soft tissue infections with other organisms, such as Pasteurella multocida herpes simplex virus may be associated with acute lymphangitis. Symptoms and signs of Acute Lymphangitis in TCM include:

1. Syndrome of Fire-Toxin Invading into Collaterals
Main Symptoms: Fine red streaks with bright red color on the infected limb, mild general symptoms, reddened tongue, thin and yellowish coating, soft and rapid pulse.

2. Syndrome of Fire-Toxin Invading into YingNutrient System
Main Symptoms: Comparatively wide red streaks on the infected limb, with dark red color, burning pain, proximal lymphatic tumefaction and fusion, accompanied by chill and high fever, restlessness, headache, dry mouth, thirst with preference for cold drinks, crimson tongue, yellowish and greasy coating, full and rapid pulse.