Lymphoedema Flashcards

1
Q

What are the causes of lymphoedema?

A

Primary: No defined cause.
Congenital: Milroy’s disease
Post-pregnancy
Elderly patients

Secondary: Less common
Filiariasis: Most common cause worldwide
Iatrogenic: Commonest UK. Surgical e.g. common femoral artery operations, LN resection, radiotherapy to groin nodes,
Cancer: Gynae or pelvic tumour (do not miss!)
Infectious: TB

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2
Q

What is the differential for bilateral limb swelling?

A

Raised venous pressure: E.g. RHF, venous insufficiency, drugs e.g. nifedipine

Reduced oncotic pressure: e.g. Nephrotic syndrome, hepatic failure, protein losing enteropathy

Lymphedema

Myxoedema: I.e. hypo/hyperthyroid

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3
Q

What is the differential for unilateral limb swelling?

A

Venous insufficiency
DVT
Infection, inflammation
Lymphedema

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4
Q

What is the definition of lymphedema?

A

Collection of interstitial fluid due to blockage or absence of lymphatics

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5
Q

How would you manage lymphedema?

A
Non-surgical: 
Skin care
Grade 3 compression stockings
Treat or prevent cellulitis
Physiotherapy- raise leg as much as possible

Surgical:
Debunking operation
Bypass procedures

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