Lymphedema

Lymphedema is chronic swelling due to impaired lymphatic drainage, either primary (congenital/hereditary) or secondary (after surgery/radiation/infection/filariasis). Clinical: progressive limb swelling, pitting early then nonpitting, skin thickening, recurrent cellulitis. Treatment: complete decongestive therapy (manual lymphatic drainage, compression bandaging/garments); exercise; elevation; skin care; treat infection; reduce weight; surgery (debulking/lymphatic bypass) in selected cases; screen for malignancy.

Common Symptoms

Progressive limb swelling; skin thickening; recurrent cellulitis; by primary/secondary

Causes and Pathogenesis

Lymphatic hypoplasia/obstruction causes protein-rich interstitial fluid accumulation and fibrosis.

Treatment

CDT (drainage/compression); exercise; elevation; skin care; treat infection; surgery selected

Preventive Measures

Care after cancer surgery/radiation; treat filariasis; skin care.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Vascular-surgery/Lymphedema clinic department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.