Red legs and cellulitis are similar conditions and can sometimes be misdiagnosed. One needs anitibiotics and a possible hospital stay, and one doesn't. Luckily the Lymphoedema team are on hand to help.

If patients are diagnosed incorrectly it can result in unecessary antibiotics, a hospital admission that isn't required, and delays in patient treatment.

If patients are being frequently admitted with cellulitis it could be time to think: Is this lipodermatoscloerosis (red legs)?

Both need a referral to lymphoedema clinic for appropriate compression treatment, however lipodermatoscloerosis will not respond to or need antibiotics.

So - what's the difference?

Lipodermatosclorosis (red legs) affects both legs, tissues feel firm and resemble inverted champagne bottle legs, systemically stable, antibiotics are NOT needed. Refer to lymphoedema service for compression therapy.

Cellulitis generally affects one leg (bilateral cellulitis is rare), tissue is painful to touch, oedema (excess fluid) is present, it spreads up the legs, systemically unstable, antibiotics are needed and a referral to lymphoedema service should take place.

If you are unsure of diagnosis, please contact the Lymphoedema Team on 01422 350755 or refer the patient directly via EPR.