16] Lymphedema

Question 1

3 functions of the lymphatic system

Answer 1

Fluid balance
Fat absorption
Defense

Question 2

3 functions of lymph nodes

Answer 2

1] protective- filter microgoanisms and abnormal cells
2] immune- produces WBCs
3] thickening- absorbs water

Question 3

Which duct goes into rest of the body

Answer 3

Thoracic duct- left lymphatic duct

Question 4

Primary lymphedema is caused by

Answer 4

Congenital or hereditary condition

Question 5

Malformation of lymphatic vessels and/ornodes

Answer 5

Primary lymphedema

Question 6

Damage to lymphatic system due to medical condition and/or intervention

Answer 6

Secondary lymphedema

Question 7

Due to chronic venous insufficiency

 Damage to lymphatic system due to overuse over several years/decades

Answer 7

Combined / Phlebo-lymphostatic lymphedema

Question 8

Stage 1 lymphedema

Answer 8

Reversible
Lots of fluid
Pitting edema and swelling reduces with elevation

Question 9

Stage 2 lymphedema

Answer 9

Spontaneously irreversible
Lots of fluid
Pitting
Fibrosis

Question 10

Stage 3 lymphedema

Answer 10

Elephantitis
Non-pitting fibrosis and sclerosis
Skin changes (papilloma, hyper keratosis)
Increased risk for cellulitis

Question 11

Characteristics of lymphedema

Answer 11

Unilateral
Discomfort
Slow onset 
Fibrotic changes 
Fatty tissue
Protein rich fluid 
Distal to proximal progression
Possible cellulitis

Question 12

Which DDx will respond to diuretics

Answer 12

Edema

Question 13

Improvement with overnight elevation

Answer 13

More in edema

Question 14

Symmetrical

Answer 14

Edema

Question 15

Usually assymetrical

Answer 15

Lymphedema

Question 16

 A specialized light massage that redirects lymph through opening anastomoses

Answer 16

Manual lymphatic drainage

Question 17

Multilayer short stretch bandages in early phase; compression garment in later phase

Answer 17

Compression

Question 18

Meticulous care of skin and nails to avoid injury or cause infection

Answer 18

Skin care

Question 19

Performed with compression; muscle pump aids in lymphatic flow

Answer 19

Exercise