Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a chronic, progressive swelling of tissue with protein-rich fluid as a consequence of developmental (primary lymphedema) or acquired (secondary lymphedema) disruption of the lymphatic system. Extremities are most commonly affected, followed by genitalia.

Most cases are secondary to nematode infection (filariasis), malignancy, or cancer-related treatment.

Typically presents with painless unilateral limb swelling; pitting edema is present in early disease, whereas nonpitting edema is a sensitive but nonspecific finding in advanced disease.

Diagnosis is usually made on clinical grounds and confirmed by lymphoscintigraphy.

First-line treatment involves compression, ranging from static garments to complex massage and pneumatic compression devices. Surgical procedures are reserved for patients refractory to conservative measures and/or with significant morbidity.

There is no cure. Successful care requires a long-term, collaborative approach between patient and providers.

The progressive swelling of a body part, usually an extremity, following developmental (primary lymphedema) or acquired (secondary lymphedema) disruption of the lymphatic system resulting in lymph (a protein-rich fluid) accumulating in the interstitial space. The extremities are most commonly involved, followed by the genitalia.