What Is Lymphedema?

According to the National Lymphedema Network, lymphedema is an abnormal collection of high-protein fluid just beneath the skin. This swelling, or edema, occurs most commonly in the arm or leg, but it also may occur in other parts of the body including the breast or trunk, head and neck, or genitals. Lymphedema usually develops when lymph vessels are damaged or lymph nodes are removed (secondary lymphedema) but can also be present when lymphatic vessels are missing or impaired due to a hereditary condition (primary lymphedema).

Lymphatic fluid is normally transported out of a region of the body by an extensive network of lymph vessels. When the collection of protein-rich fluid persists in a specific area, it can attract more fluid and thus worsen the swelling. In addition to increased fluid in the area, the body experiences an inflammatory reaction resulting in scar tissue called fibrosis in the affected area. The presence of fibrosis makes it even more difficult for the excess fluid to be eliminated from the area. As a result, the increased fluid and fibrosis prevents the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to the area, which in turn can delay wound healing, provide a culture medium for bacteria to grow, and increase the risk of infections in or below the skin called cellulitis or lymphangitis (discussed later under Infections and Other Complications).

Lymphedema should not be confused with other types of edema resulting from venous insufficiency (leaky or obstructed veins), cardiac conditions like heart failure or sleep apnea, kidney failure, or other inflammatory processes. These conditions are not lymphedema and are generally treated differently.

Common causes of lymphedema?

Lymphedema normally occurs after the removal or damage of lymph nodes in a specific area, for example after a mastectomy, melanoma, colon, prostate or bladder cancer. The lymph nodes may also be damaged by an infection, radiation treatment, or trauma.Lymphedema can also be present from birth, abnormalities in the lymphatic system from birth and it creates swelling in multiple limbs and body regions. It can develop at puberty and adulthood.

List of conditions that can benefit from Complete Decongestive Therapy

  • Axially Web Syndrome
  • Lipedema
  • Lipo-Lymphedema
  • Post-Mastectomy
  • Post-Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer
  • Post-Cancer Treatments
  • Post-Head and Neck Cancer