What does streaking describe in the context of athletic injuries?

• A. Redness at the site that spreads toward the core.
• B. Numbness in the limb.
• C. Bleeding at the surface.
• D. Swelling of joints.

Answer: (A)

Streaking refers to red lines that spread from a wound along the lymphatic vessels, typically moving toward the trunk of the body. This pattern signals that an infection is spreading up the limb (lymphangitis/cellulitis) and is a warning sign to seek medical care promptly. It’s distinct from numbness (nerve involvement), surface bleeding (bleeding), or joint swelling (edema), which are not described by red streaks spreading along lymphatics.