Lymphedema

Lymphedema manifests as progressive swelling of a specific part of the body, usually the arm or leg. Lymphedema can be congenital or acquired. When lymphatic drainage is impaired, lymph accumulates in the interstitial space, leading to lymphedema. The most common locations of lymphatic dysfunction are the arms, legs, and genitals. The most common cause of lymphedema is non-filarial infection, malignancy, or cancer treatment. Lymphedema presents as painless swelling and tightness in one side of the arm or leg. Upon pressing the swollen area, a pit remains for a long time. Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation and lymphoscintigraphy. Lymphedema is treated with various types of compression – massages, pneumatic compression devices.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology