Lymphoedema

Question 1

What is primary lymphedema?

Answer 1

Lymphedema secondary to faulty development of lymphatic system

Question 2

What is a common cause of secondary lymphoedema?

Answer 2

Breast cancer surgery after removal of axillary lymph nodes

Question 3

what is lipoedema

Answer 3

Abnormal build up of fat tissue in the limbs often legs with feet spared

Question 4

What is stemmer’s sign

Answer 4

Assesses for lymphedema
Skin at the bottom of the second toe or middle finger is gently pinched together using two fingers. If it is possible to lift and “tent” the skin, Stemmer’s sign is negative. If it is not possible to pinch the skin together, lift and “tent” it, Stemmer’s sign is positive, suggesting lymphoedema.

Question 5

How can volume of fluid be measured?

Answer 5

Bioelectric impedance spectrometry - uses electrical current passed through the limb

Question 6

How can limb volume be measured

Answer 6

Circumferential measurements
Water displacement
Perometry

Question 7

What are non-surgical treatment options for lymphoedema?

Answer 7

Massage techniques
Compression bandages
Specific lymphoedema exercises
Weight loss
Good kin care

Question 8

What should be avoided in limbs with lymphoedema?

Answer 8

taking blood, inserting a cannula

Question 9

What is lymphaticovenular anastomosis

Answer 9

Surgical procedure
Lymphatic vessels are attached to nearby veins so can drain directly into venous system

Question 10

What is lymphatic filariasis

Answer 10

Infectious disease caused by parasitic worms spread by mosquitos
Can lead to elephantiasis