Lymphoedema

Question 1

What is lymphoedema?

Answer 1

Impaired drainage of the lymphatic system

Leads to accumulation of protein rich fluid causing chronic pitting oedema

Question 2

What are the causes?

Answer 2

Primary
-congenital malformation of lymphatic system

Secondary

• due to another condition
• e.g. malignancy, surgical removal, cancer therapy or recurrent cellulitis

Question 3

What is an important ddx?

Answer 3

Lipoedema
Fat accumulation in tissues
Unlike lymphoedema it does not affect the feet

Question 4

What is the management?

Answer 4

With specialised lymphoedema services
Conservative
-massage to help improve drainage
-special exercises to help improve drainage
-compression bandages
-good skin care
-weight loss

Surgery
-anastomoses of lymphatic duct into veins to allow drainage

CBT for dealing with it
Abx if signs of infection