Major Revisions To Guidelines On The Management Of Cellulitis In Lymphoedema

Important and long-awaited revisions to the original guidelines on the management of cellulitis in lymphoedema are set out in a joint document by The British Lymphology Society, who are clinical experts in lymphoedema, in collaboration with a Microbiology consultant, and the national patient group, the Lymphoedema Support Network.

“The main drivers for the new edition were antibiotic stewardship and new evidence on the risk factors for developing cellulitis in those with lymphoedema. There is a focus on non-drug methods of reducing the risk of recurrent episodes of cellulitis and guidance on the appropriate prescription and review of antibiotic prophylaxis”.

Prof. Vaughan Keeley, Consultant Physician in Lymphoedema, University Hospitals of Derby & Burton NHS Foundation Trust (Chair)

Although cellulitis in lymphoedema is most common in the limbs it can occur in other areas, therefore treatment may need to differ depending on its location. A Cochrane review and subsequent partial update concluded that it was not possible to define the best treatment for cellulitis in general based upon existing evidence*. In addition, the appropriate treatment of cellulitis in Lymphoedema may differ from cellulitis in other clinical situations. This guidance is, therefore, based on current evidence and expert consensus where evidence is not available.

“I can’t stress enough the importance of the updated guidelines, they will help healthcare practitioners ensure prompt and effective treatment, thereby reducing unplanned and unnecessary hospital admissions and deterioration of patients’ lymphoedema.”

Margaret Sneddon,

British Lymphology Society Chair

Recommendations for (i) the use of antibiotics for cellulitis in patients with lymphoedema, (ii) when admission to hospital is required and (iii) administering prompt treatment to reduce the risk of worsening symptoms, development of life-threatening conditions and to avoid a predisposition to repeated attacks, are all detailed in the updated guidelines which support evidence-based practise. These 2022 guidelines replace all previous editions and are intended to support primary healthcare professionals and those working in specialist lymphoedema services.

To view the updated guidelines Click Here

On 7th March, Professor Vaughan Keeley will present a free educational webinar titled “Recognising cellulitis in people with lymphoedema, and what to do about it”. The webinar is aimed at healthcare professionals and it is recommended for all those who see chronic oedema to attend. For more information and to register, visit the British Lymphology Society’s registration page here: https://linktr.ee/thebls

*Kilburn et al 2020; Brindle et al 2019

For further information and comments please contact: admin@thebls.com

About the British Lymphology Society (BLS):

The BLS is a registered charity. By actively promoting professional standards, the study, understanding and treatment of lymphoedema, we strive to reduce the prevalence, severity, and impact of lymphoedema and for equitable access to treatment.

www.thebls.com

About Lymphoedema:

Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic drainage system fails; chronic oedema is indicative of failure of lymphatic drainage. Both terms are used interchangeably to emphasise the need to manage both the initial cause of the chronic oedema and the lymphatic failure concurrently.

About the Lymphoedema Support Network

The LSN is the leading patient charity in the UK offering information and support to those living with or affected by lymphoedema. It provides gold standard information in a variety of formats, online and telephone support, active social media presence, as well as working with others to promote equity of care for all people and increased research. The LSN believes that Lymphoedema Matters.

www.lymphoedema.org or tel :020 7351 0990