The Lymphatic System Flashcards
What is the lymphatic system?
A network of lymphatic vessels that withdraws excess tissue fluid (lymph) from the body’s interstitial spaces, filters it through lymph nodes, and returns it to the bloodstream via the venous system
Describe lymph circulation.
Lymph travels from:
- Lymphatic capillaries to
- Lymphatic vessels to
- Large lymphatic ducts (right lymphatic duct, thoracic duct to subclavian veins)
What is lymphedema?
Chronic disorder characterized by excessive accumulation of lymph fluid due to mechanical insufficiency of the lymphatic system (obstruction of lymph flow or removal of lymph nodes)
What 2 things occur secondary to lymphedema?
- Lymph fluid volume exceeds the transport capacity of lymph vessels
- Results in swelling of the soft tissues of the upper and lower extremities
What is the difference between primary and secondary lymphedema?
Primary: a congenital or hereditary disorder with abnormal lymph node or lymph vessel formation
Secondary: acquired insult to the lymphatic system. Most commonly seen after surgery for breast/cervical cancer
Describe the 4 stages of lymphedema.
Stage 0 = at risk; swelling is not yet evident despite reduced transport capacity of the system.
Stage 1 = reversible; early accumulation of fluid with visible swelling; pitting edema that resolves with elevation; Stemmer’s sign is negative
Stage 2 = spontaneously irreversible; increase in swelling; elevation does not reduce the swelling; positive Stemmer’s sign
Stage 3 = elephantiasis; fibrotic deep skinfolds; skin may change color; skin changes may limit mobility
_____ is a differential diagnosis for lymphedema and is characterized by excessive _____ deposition.
Lipedema
Excessive SUBCUTANEOUS FAT deposition
What is lymphangitis?
An acute bacterial or viral infection that spreads through the lymphatic system
Red streaks are often seen in the skin proximal to the infection site
Unilateral disease lymphedema is considered to be present if there is a ____ % increase in volumetric measurements as compared to the unaffected side.
> 10 %
What is used to differentiate between lipedema and lymphedema?
Bioimpedance
What is the difference between lymphangiectasis and lymphorrhea?
Lymphangiectasis = dilation of lymph vessels, may appear as blister like perturbances
Lymphorrhea: leakage of lymph from skin surface
Describe normal versus abnormal lymph node palpation.
Normal = soft, moveable, non-tender, lymph nodes
Inflammation/infection = soft, moveable, tender lymph nodes
Metastatic cancer = Hard, immobile lymph nodes
What is a lymphoscintigraphy?
Identifies lymphatic insufficiency and performed at rest and with exercise
List 5 interventions for asymptomatic patients who are at risk for lymphedema.
- Meticulous skin and nail care
- Avoid heavy lifting
- Avoid limb constriction
- Wear properly fitting compression garments
- Avoid temperature extremes
______ therapy is used to treat lymphedema.
Complete decongestive therapy
