Lymphoedema Flashcards
Define lymphoedema (4)
- Chronic swelling of a body part
- accumulation of fluid/prtn in tissue spaces
- from congenital malformed lymphatics OR damage to lymph vessels/nodes
What is in lymphoedema (4)
- Prtn
- Cell debris
- Fat
- Bacteria
Do the lymphatics filter at different layers? And why?
Yes, 2 layers
Protect vitals from bacteria/cancer cells/etc
What is the function of the lymphatic system?
Collect and transport extra-cellular fluid
What is extra-cellular fluid called when in the lymphatic vessels?
Lymph
What do the lymph nodes do? (2)
Filter lymph
Immune function role
How much lymph is collected/moved in 24hrs?
2-4L normally
What 5 things assist lymph drainage?
- Intrinsic pumping of lymph vessels (4-5bpm)
- Active mm contraction
- Passive jt movement
- Respiration (pressure changes above/below diaphragm)
- Pulsation of adjacent B.vessels
Define primary lymphoedema and the 3 types.
Primary (Developmental fault)
- if no other reason, malformed vessels = likely.
Birth-2yo = Ly... congenita 2-35yo = Ly... praecox >35yo = Ly... tarda
Define secondary lymphoedema (4)
Damage sustained later
- Lymph node resection/radiotherapy
- Obstruction (e.g. tumour)
- Infection
- Injury
Triggers/aggravating factors (1, 6)
Anything increasing lymphatic load OR obstructing/reducing drainage
- Infection
- Excess body weight
- Too little exercise/movement
- Heat
- Tight clothing, jewellery, bandaging
- Air travel with no compression garment
Why would air travel affect lymphoedema?
- Air pressure change
- Stationary
Practical prevention
Exercise
- resistance does not worsen
- may = less flare ups (self reported
Should an unfit person start intense/repetitive exercise?
No, build up gradually
Describe total/simple mastectomy
Breast tissue removed including nipple (no lymph nodes removed)