What condition is characterized by inflammation of lymphatic vessels due to a bacterial infection?

The condition characterized by inflammation of lymphatic vessels due to a bacterial infection is lymphangitis. This condition typically arises when bacteria, often from a skin infection, enter the lymphatic system, leading to symptoms such as redness, pain, and swelling along the affected lymph vessels. Patients may also experience systemic symptoms like fever and chills as the body responds to the infection.

Other options listed have distinct meanings and implications. For instance, thymitis refers to inflammation of the thymus gland, which is unrelated to the lymphatic vessels. Lymphoma is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphatic system but does not involve inflammation of lymphatic vessels due to infection. Lymphedema, on the other hand, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of lymph fluid in tissues due to obstruction or damage to the lymphatic system—not inflammation from infection. Thus, lymphangitis is the specific and correct term for the inflammation of lymphatic vessels caused by bacterial infection.