Lymphatic System Flashcards
What is lymphedema
Excessive accumulation of lymph fluid fluid due to mechanical insufficiency of the lymphatic system (obstruction of lymph flow or removal of lymph nodes)
What is primary lymphedema
Congenital or hereditary disorder with abnormal lymph node or lymph vessel formation
What is secondary lymphedema
Acquired insult to the lymphatic system
When is secondary lymphedema most commonly seen after
Breast/cervical cancer surgery
What are the stages of lymphedema and what do they mean
0: at risk, swelling is not yet evident despite reduced transport capacity of the system
1: reversible.. early accumulation of fluid with visible swelling.. pitting edema that resolves with elevation
2: spontaneously irreversible.. increase in swelling.. elevation does not reduce inflammation the swelling
3: elephantiasis.. fibrotic deep skinfolds
What stages of lymphedema are negative and positive Stemer’s Sign
Negative: 1
Positive: 2
What is lymphadenopathy
Enlargement of lymph nodes, with or without tenderness
What Disease are red streaks commonly seen in
Lymphangitis
What is lymphangitis
Acute bacterial or viral infection that spreads throughout the lymphatic system
