Lymphedema Flashcards
The Lymphatic System is a ____ - way system, originating from where?
One-Way, originating from peripheral tissues.
How much fluid does the lymphatic system take on?
10% (transports 2-3 liters of fluid each day)
Where are lymph capillaries found?
Throughout the tissues in the body.
What is the primary function of the Lymph Nodes?
To filer lymph & house immune cells.
Where are lymph nodes found?
Found in all tissues in your body except the CNS.
What are the collecting ducts of the lymphatic system?
Right Collecting Duct & Thoracic Collecting Duct
Where does the right collecting duct collect fluid from?
(R) arm, (R) trunk, and (R) side of the head and neck.
Where does the thoracic collecting duct collect fluid from?
Collects fluid from both lower extremities, (L) arm, (L) trunk, (L) side of the head and neck.
What are some immune cells housed in Lymph nodes?
B and T lymphocytes, macrophages, and other white blood cells.
How does the lymphatic system move fluid?
Smooth Muscle Contractions, One-Way Valves, Skeletal Muscle Pump, Diaphragmatic Breathing, Gravity
What are some symptoms of lymphatic system trauma or injury?
- Localized swelling causing lymphatic congestion.
- One-way valve fail causing backflow
- Lymph vessels dilate due to the excess fluid.
What is Lymphedema?
The onset of swelling due to the breakdown of the normal lymphatic transport mechanism.
What is the result of Lymphedema?
The chronic accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the interstitial spaces.
When does primary lymphedema develop?
Inherited/Congenital dysfunction in the development of the lymphatic system.
When does secondary lymphedema develop?
Develops in response to injury/trauma/surgery/radiation/lymph node removal or parasitic infection.
What is stage 0 of lymphedema?
Latent, patient may feel heaviness or pressure, but no actual swelling.
What is stage 1 of lymphedema?
Edema is pitting but reversible
What is stage 2 of lymphedema?
Edema is non-pitting, tissue becomes “spongy” in texture and early soft tissue fibrosis occurs.
What is stage 3 of lymphedema?
Lymphostatic elephantiasis (soft-tissue fibrosis, hyperkeratosis, and dermal hardening)
How do you clinically assess lymphedema?
Circumferential Measurements (5% difference when compared to unaffected limb)
What are some additional diagnostic tools for lymphedema?
MRI Scan, CT Scan, Doppler Ultrasound, Lymphoscintigraphy Imaging
What are some complications associated with lymphedema?
Cellulitis
Fungal Infections
Ulcers
Lymphangitis
Lymphorhea
Lymphangiosarcoma
What are some treatment options for lymphedema?
Medications (Diuretics)
Compression
Fluid Extraction
Surgical Interventions
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Complete Decongestive Therapy
