Lymphoedema is swelling in the limbs caused by impaired lymphatic vessel function. Lymphatic vessels aid in fluid drainage and act as an immune system regulator, while lymph nodes filter lymph.
- Swelling in the arms and/or legs, particularly in fingers and toes
- Swelling in the head/neck
- A feeling of heaviness/aching
- Tightening of the skin
- Fatigue
- Fluid leakage through the skin
- Difficulty with basic movement
- More frequent infection
- Chronic wounds
Primary Lymphoedema: This is a rare condition caused by the congenital absence or dysfunction of lymphatics. Patients can present with limb swelling from birth, or in the event of delayed primary failure, in their teenage years.
Secondary Lymphoedema: More common form, often caused by surgery or radiation therapy affecting lymph nodes, as well as recurrent skin infections damaging lymphatic drainage.
Diagnosis involves obtaining a patient’s history of duration of limb swelling, exclusion of other causes of limb swelling, and potentially performing a lymphoscintigraphy scan to determine the type and extent of lymphoedema.
The primary goal of treatment is to reduce swelling and restore functionality. Approaches include newer techniques like lymphovenous bypass surgery or lymph node transplants to improve lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling.
