Lymphoedema Flashcards
What is lymphoedema?
Localised fluid retention and tissue swelling caused by a compromised lymphatic system
What causes primary lymphoedema?
Inherited
What causes secondary lymphoedema?
Injury to lymph vessel - lymph node dissection/surgery/radiotherapy, filariasis
Describe the progression of lymphoedema?
Pitting oedema – > fibrosis –> irreversible swelling
How does lymphoedema present?
Swelling of an area, reduced range of movement, feeling of heaviness/tightness in limb, recurrent infections
How do you diagnose lymphoedema?
Measurement of differences between the affected or at-risk limb and the opposite unaffected limb
What is the goal of management?
Restore function, reduce physical and psychological suffering, prevent development of infection
What non-surgical managements are there?
Manual compression lymphatic massage, compression garments or bandaging, exercise
What surgical options are there?
Vascularised lymph node transfer, lymphaticovenous anastomosis
