Obrzęk limfatyczny
Etiologia i przyczyny

Obrzęk limfatyczny to przewlekły stan patologiczny charakteryzujący się akumulacją białkowo bogatego płynu limfatycznego w tkankach miękkich, najczęściej kończyn dolnych lub górnych, spowodowany uszkodzeniem lub niedrożnością układu limfatycznego. Wyróżnia się obrzęk pierwotny, związany z wrodzonymi wadami anatomicznymi (np. aplazja, hipoplazja, niewydolność zastawek) i mutacjami genów takich jak VEGFR3, stanowiący około 5% przypadków, oraz obrzęk wtórny, stanowiący 95% przypadków, wynikający z czynników zewnętrznych, takich jak leczenie onkologiczne (chirurgia, radioterapia), infekcje (cellulitis, filarioza limfatyczna), choroby sercowo-naczyniowe, urazy, otyłość czy unieruchomienie. Obrzęk pierwotny najczęściej dotyczy kończyn dolnych i może manifestować się od urodzenia do późnej dorosłości, natomiast obrzęk wtórny może pojawić się bezpośrednio po urazie lub nawet po wielu latach od ekspozycji na czynniki ryzyka.

Etiologia obrzęku limfatycznego

Obrzęk limfatyczny (limfedema) to przewlekły stan chorobowy charakteryzujący się nieprawidłowym gromadzeniem się płynu limfatycznego w tkankach miękkich organizmu, najczęściej w kończynach górnych lub dolnych. Powstaje on na skutek uszkodzenia lub niedrożności układu limfatycznego, co prowadzi do upośledzenia drenażu limfy i gromadzenia się bogatego w białko płynu w przestrzeni śródmiąższowej.12 Obrzęk limfatyczny klasyfikuje się na dwa główne typy: pierwotny i wtórny, które różnią się etiologią i mechanizmem powstawania.34

Obrzęk limfatyczny pierwotny

Pierwotny obrzęk limfatyczny jest związany z wrodzonymi nieprawidłowościami układu limfatycznego i stanowi około 5% wszystkich przypadków obrzęku limfatycznego.5 Powstaje on na skutek mutacji genów odpowiedzialnych za rozwój układu limfatycznego, co prowadzi do nieprawidłowego funkcjonowania tego układu.67 Przyczyny pierwotnego obrzęku limfatycznego obejmują:

  • Aplazja – całkowity brak części układu limfatycznego8
  • Hipoplazja – niedorozwój naczyń limfatycznych lub występowanie ich w mniejszej liczbie niż normalnie (najczęstsza przyczyna pierwotnego obrzęku limfatycznego)9
  • Hiperplazja – naczynia limfatyczne są większe niż normalnie i nie funkcjonują prawidłowo10
  • Niewydolność zastawek – zaburzenia w funkcjonowaniu zastawek w naczyniach limfatycznych11

W zależności od wieku, w którym pojawia się obrzęk limfatyczny pierwotny, można go dodatkowo sklasyfikować jako:12

  • Wrodzony obrzęk limfatyczny (obecny przy urodzeniu do 2 roku życia)
  • Wczesny obrzęk limfatyczny (pojawia się w okresie dojrzewania lub ciąży, przed 35 rokiem życia)
  • Późny obrzęk limfatyczny (występuje po 35 roku życia)

Pierwotny obrzęk limfatyczny może być związany z określonymi zespołami genetycznymi, takimi jak choroba Milroya (spowodowana mutacjami w genie VEGFR3), choroba Meige’a (najczęstsza forma dziedzicznego obrzęku limfatycznego, stanowiąca 80% wszystkich przypadków) czy zespół Turnera.1314 Niedobór peptydów, takich jak adrenomedullina (AM) kodowana przez gen ADM, może również predysponować do rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego.15 W większości przypadków obrzęk limfatyczny pierwotny dotyczy kończyn dolnych, natomiast pierwotny obrzęk limfatyczny kończyn górnych występuje rzadko.16

Obrzęk limfatyczny wtórny

Obrzęk limfatyczny wtórny jest znacznie częstszy i stanowi około 95% wszystkich przypadków.17 Rozwija się on, gdy prawidłowo funkcjonujący układ limfatyczny zostaje uszkodzony lub zablokowany przez czynniki zewnętrzne.1819 Główne przyczyny obrzęku limfatycznego wtórnego obejmują:

Nowotwory i ich leczenie

W krajach rozwiniętych najczęstszą przyczyną obrzęku limfatycznego wtórnego są nowotwory złośliwe i ich leczenie.2021 Obrzęk limfatyczny może wystąpić na kilka sposobów:

  • Zabiegi chirurgiczne – usunięcie węzłów chłonnych podczas operacji nowotworów (szczególnie w przypadku raka piersi, nowotworów ginekologicznych, urologicznych, czerniaka czy chłoniaków) może prowadzić do uszkodzenia dróg limfatycznych i zaburzenia przepływu limfy2223
  • Radioterapia – może powodować bliznowacenie i zapalenie węzłów i naczyń limfatycznych, co zaburza przepływ limfy2425
  • Blokada przez guz nowotworowy – rozwijający się guz może uciskać na naczynia limfatyczne lub węzły chłonne, blokując przepływ limfy2627
  • Naciekanie naczyń limfatycznych – komórki nowotworowe mogą naciekać naczynia limfatyczne i blokować przepływ limfy28

Nowotwory, które najczęściej prowadzą do rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego to:29

  • Rak piersi (szczególnie po mastektomii i usunięciu węzłów chłonnych pachowych)
  • Rak prostaty
  • Nowotwory obszaru miednicy (rak pęcherza moczowego, jąder, prącia, endometrium, sromu lub szyjki macicy)
  • Chłoniak
  • Czerniak
  • Nowotwory głowy i szyi

Ryzyko rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego wzrasta wraz z liczbą usuniętych węzłów chłonnych oraz zastosowaniem radioterapii.3031 Obrzęk limfatyczny może wystąpić bezpośrednio po leczeniu przeciwnowotworowym lub rozwinąć się nawet po wielu latach od zakończenia terapii.3233

Infekcje i stany zapalne

Infekcje mogą prowadzić do uszkodzenia układu limfatycznego i rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego:3435

  • Zapalenie tkanki łącznej (cellulitis) – nawracające epizody zapalenia tkanki łącznej mogą powodować uszkodzenie naczyń limfatycznych i prowadzić do rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego3637
  • Filarioza limfatyczna – zakażenie pasożytnicze wywołane przez nicienie przenoszone przez komary (Wucheria bancrofti), które blokują węzły chłonne; jest to najczęstsza przyczyna obrzęku limfatycznego na świecie, szczególnie w krajach rozwijających się w strefie tropikalnej3839
  • Zakażenie wirusem opryszczki – rzadko może prowadzić do zapalenia naczyń limfatycznych i obrzęku limfatycznego40

Przewlekłe stany zapalne również mogą przyczyniać się do rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego:41

  • Reumatoidalne zapalenie stawów
  • Wyprysk (egzema)
  • Łuszczyca
  • Sarkoidoza
  • Zapalenie naczyń (vasculitis)
Choroby układu sercowo-naczyniowego

Schorzenia układu sercowo-naczyniowego mogą prowadzić do obrzęku limfatycznego:4243

  • Przewlekła niewydolność żylna – nieprawidłowe funkcjonowanie żył powoduje zwiększenie ciśnienia żylnego i wtórne uszkodzenie układu limfatycznego (obrzęk mieszany żylno-limfatyczny, tzw. phlebo-lymphedema)4445
  • Zakrzepica żył głębokich
  • Żylaki
  • Niewydolność serca – szczególnie zastoinowa niewydolność serca; przewody limfatyczne odprowadzają limfę z powrotem do serca, więc jeśli serce nie pracuje prawidłowo, może dochodzić do zastoju limfy i obrzęku46
Urazy i czynniki mechaniczne

Urazy fizyczne mogą uszkodzić naczynia limfatyczne i prowadzić do obrzęku limfatycznego:4748

  • Urazy bezpośrednie – system limfatyczny znajduje się mniej niż 1,3 cm pod powierzchnią skóry, co czyni go podatnym na uszkodzenia w wyniku urazu49
  • Oparzenia – mogą prowadzić do bliznowacenia i uszkodzenia naczyń limfatycznych
  • Urazy zmiażdżeniowe
  • Zabiegi ortopedyczne
  • Inne zabiegi chirurgiczne – np. liposukcja50
Otyłość i unieruchomienie

Otyłość stanowi istotny czynnik ryzyka rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego:5152

  • Nadmierna tkanka tłuszczowa wywiera nacisk na węzły i naczynia limfatyczne, zaburzając drenaż limfatyczny53
  • Otyłość może prowadzić do obrzęku limfatycznego indukowanego otyłością (obesity-induced lymphedema)54

Unieruchomienie również może przyczyniać się do rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego:55

  • Mięśnie nóg pompują krążenie limfatyczne, więc brak aktywności może powodować zastój limfy
  • Długotrwałe unieruchomienie (np. po udarze, z powodu porażenia) utrudnia przepływ limfy
Choroby nerek

Choroby nerek mogą przyczyniać się do rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego:56

  • Nerki odpowiadają za usuwanie nadmiaru płynów i produktów odpadowych z organizmu
  • Jeśli nerki nie funkcjonują prawidłowo, organizm może mieć trudności z usuwaniem płynów, co prowadzi do obrzęków
Czynniki jatrogenne

Niektóre leki i procedury medyczne mogą przyczyniać się do rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego:57

  • Inhibitory kanału wapniowego stosowane w leczeniu nadciśnienia tętniczego, szczególnie amlodypina
  • Kortykosteroidy
  • Niesteroidowe leki przeciwzapalne
  • Hormony płciowe
  • Niektóre chemioterapeutyki i leczenie hormonalne (np. tamoksyfen – związany z zakrzepicą żył głębokich, która może prowadzić do obrzęku limfatycznego)58

Czynniki wyzwalające i ryzyka

Istnieją dodatkowe czynniki, które mogą wyzwalać rozwój obrzęku limfatycznego u osób z predyspozycjami lub zwiększać ryzyko jego wystąpienia:59

  • Podróże lotnicze – zmiany ciśnienia atmosferycznego podczas lotu mogą zaostrzać obrzęk limfatyczny60
  • Urazy obszaru dotkniętego – nawet drobne urazy, ukąszenia owadów czy iniekcje mogą wyzwalać obrzęk limfatyczny
  • Nadmierna ekspozycja na ciepło – w tym oparzenia słoneczne
  • Nadmierne obciążenie kończyny – np. noszenie ciężkich toreb lub długotrwałe stanie
  • Ucisk kończyny – przez ciasną odzież, biżuterię czy mankiety do pomiaru ciśnienia
  • Zaawansowany wiek – zwiększa ryzyko rozwoju obrzęku limfatycznego61
  • Wolniejsze gojenie się ran po operacji62
  • Choroby autoimmunologiczne – np. reumatoidalne zapalenie stawów czy łuszczyca63

Patofizjologia obrzęku limfatycznego

Niezależnie od przyczyny, mechanizm powstawania obrzęku limfatycznego opiera się na zaburzeniu równowagi między produkcją a odpływem limfy:6465

  1. Uszkodzenie lub zablokowanie układu limfatycznego prowadzi do upośledzenia drenażu limfy z tkanek
  2. Bogata w białko limfa gromadzi się w tkankach, powodując obrzęk śródmiąższowy
  3. Początkowo obrzęk może być miękki i ustępować po uniesieniu kończyny
  4. Z czasem dochodzi do przewlekłego stanu zapalnego i włóknienia tkanek
  5. Obniżone ciśnienie parcjalne tlenu prowadzi do przewlekłego zapalenia i reaktywnego włóknienia tkanek
  6. W późniejszych stadiach dochodzi do odkładania się tkanki tłuszczowej i zwłóknienia, co prowadzi do nieodwracalnych zmian w tkankach

Progresja obrzęku limfatycznego do stadiów nieodwracalnych wynika z odpowiedzi zapalnej organizmu, który próbuje pozbyć się białek z płynu śródmiąższowego. Odpowiedź zapalna prowadzi do włóknienia tkanek i odkładania tkanki tłuszczowej. U niektórych osób włóknienie i odkładanie tkanki tłuszczowej następuje bardzo szybko, podczas gdy u innych może minąć wiele lat bez znaczących nieodwracalnych zmian.66

Typ obrzęku limfatycznego Główne przyczyny Charakterystyka
Pierwotny – Wrodzone wady układu limfatycznego
– Mutacje genetyczne (np. VEGFR3)
– Aplazja/hipoplazja naczyń limfatycznych
– Niewydolność zastawek
– Rzadszy (5% przypadków)
– Może być obecny od urodzenia lub ujawnić się później
– Może występować rodzinnie
– Najczęściej dotyka kończyn dolnych
Wtórny – Leczenie nowotworów (chirurgia, radioterapia)
– Ucisk przez guz nowotworowy
– Infekcje (cellulitis, filarioza)
– Urazy i oparzenia
– Choroby układu sercowo-naczyniowego
– Otyłość
– Unieruchomienie
– Częstszy (95% przypadków)
– Może rozwinąć się bezpośrednio po urazie lub po latach
– W krajach rozwiniętych najczęściej związany z leczeniem nowotworów
– Na świecie najczęściej powodowany przez filariozę

Specyficzne formy obrzęku limfatycznego

W zależności od lokalizacji, etiologii i współistniejących schorzeń wyróżnia się specyficzne formy obrzęku limfatycznego:6768

  • Lipo-limfedema – połączenie lipedemy (zaburzenia dystrybucji tkanki tłuszczowej) i obrzęku limfatycznego, gdy nadmiar tkanki tłuszczowej wywiera znaczny nacisk na naczynia limfatyczne69
  • Phlebolymphedema – obrzęk limfatyczny spowodowany przewlekłą chorobą żylną70
  • Obrzęk limfatyczny indukowany otyłością – związany z nadmiernym naciskiem tkanki tłuszczowej na naczynia limfatyczne71
  • Obrzęk limfatyczny narządów płciowych – może być spowodowany leczeniem nowotworów w obszarze miednicy, infekcjami lub innymi schorzeniami (np. choroba Crohna, sarkoidoza)72
  • Elephantiasis nostras verrucosa – przewlekły obrzęk limfatyczny z brodawkowatymi zmianami skórnymi, trudny do leczenia73
  • Słoniowacizna (elephantiasis) – skrajna hiperkeratoza skóry w kończynie dotkniętej obrzękiem limfatycznym, najczęściej spowodowana filariozą limfatyczną74

Powikłania obrzęku limfatycznego

Nieleczony obrzęk limfatyczny może prowadzić do poważnych powikłań:757677

  • Nawracające infekcje – obrzęk limfatyczny znacznie zwiększa ryzyko infekcji skórnych (cellulitis), które z kolei mogą pogarszać obrzęk limfatyczny, tworząc błędne koło
  • Zmiany skórne – pogrubienie, włóknienie i hiperkeratoza skóry
  • Ograniczenie ruchomości stawów i utrata zakresu ruchu
  • Ból i dyskomfort
  • Nowotwory wtórne – istnieje około 10% ryzyko rozwoju mięsaka naczyniowego (angiosarcoma) u pacjentów z przewlekłym obrzękiem limfatycznym trwającym 10 lat; inne możliwe nowotwory to mięsak Kaposiego, czerniak, chłoniak, rak podstawnokomórkowy lub płaskonabłonkowy, co może wynikać z upośledzenia lokalnego nadzoru immunologicznego

Obrzęk limfatyczny jest schorzeniem przewlekłym, postępującym i wyniszczającym, które znacząco wpływa na jakość życia pacjentów. Chociaż nie ma ostatecznego leczenia, wczesne rozpoznanie, identyfikacja przyczyny i odpowiednie postępowanie mogą ograniczyć progresję choroby i potencjalne powikłania.7879

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  1. 09.04.2026
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Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Lymphedema: Pathophysiology and clinical manifestations – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29132848/
    Lymphedema is a localized form of tissue swelling resulting from excessive retention of lymphatic fluid in the interstitial compartment and caused by impaired lymphatic drainage. Lymphedema is classified as primary or secondary. Primary lymphedema is caused by developmental lymphatic vascular anomalies. Secondary lymphedema is acquired and arises as a result of an underlying systemic disease, trauma, or surgery. […] This progressive chronic disease has serious implications on patients’ quality of life. […] There is no definitive cure for lymphedema. However, with proper diagnosis and management, its progression and potential complications may be limited.
  • #2 Primary vs. Secondary Lymphedema: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment  – PAM Health
    https://pamhealth.com/resources/primary-vs-secondary-lymphedema-symptoms-causes-and-treatments/
    Uncomfortable and even painful swelling can occur in the body for many reasons, including lymphedema. […] Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system is unable to drain lymph due to damage or a blockage. Without draining, this high-protein fluid builds up and causes the swelling associated with lymphedema. […] Various factors, including genetic conditions, infection, and cancer treatment, can cause lymphedema. Primary and secondary lymphedema can differ in terms of causes and risk factors. […] Primary lymphedema results from hereditary or genetic anomalies that cause the lymphatic system to not develop correctly. […] Secondary lymphedema is acquired, meaning another disease or outside factor causes it. Some of the potential causes of secondary lymphedema include: Cancer can disrupt the lymphatic system and cause lymphedema.
  • #3
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lymphoedema/
    Lymphoedema is caused by a problem with the lymphatic system, a network of vessels and glands spread throughout the body. The main functions of the lymphatic system are helping fight infection and draining excess fluid from tissues. […] There are 2 main types of lymphoedema: primary lymphoedema caused by faulty genes that affect the development of the lymphatic system; it can develop at any age, but usually starts during infancy, adolescence, or early adulthood […] secondary lymphoedema caused by damage to the lymphatic system or problems with the movement and drainage of fluid in the lymphatic system; it can be the result of a cancer treatment, an infection, injury, inflammation of the limb, or a lack of limb movement.
  • #4 Lymphedema: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1087313-overview
    Lymphedema is caused by a compromised lymphatic system that impedes and diminishes lymphatic return. In primary lymphedema, the failure is caused by congenital hypoplasia or aplasia of the peripheral lymphatics or by valvular incompetence. In secondary lymphedema, the lymphatic drainage is altered by an acquired blockade of the lymph nodes or by disruption of the local lymphatic channels caused by one of the following etiologies: […] Secondary lymphedema occurs as a result of obstruction of lymphatic flow by known mechanisms, including the following: […] Whether the cause is acquired blockade of the lymph nodes or disruption of the local lymphatic channels, the result is a failure to drain protein-rich lymphatic fluid from the tissue, causing interstitial edema with swelling of the affected site.
  • #5 Lymphedema – Cardiovascular Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/lymphatic-disorders/lymphedema
    Lymphedema may be […] Primary: Due to lymphatic hypoplasia […] Secondary: Due to obstruction or disruption of lymphatic vessels. […] Secondary lymphedema accounts for 95% of cases. […] Most common causes are Surgery (especially lymph node dissection, typically for treatment of breast cancer), Radiation therapy (especially axillary or inguinal), Trauma, Lymphatic obstruction by a tumor, Lymphatic filariasis (present in some tropical and subtropical areas). […] Mild lymphedema may also result from leakage of lymph into interstitial tissues in patients with chronic venous insufficiency. […] Cure is unusual once lymphedema occurs. […] Secondary lymphedema (due to obstruction or disruption of lymphatic vessels) is far more common than primary lymphedema (which is due to lymphatic hypoplasia). […] Elephantiasis (extreme hyperkeratosis of skin in a limb affected by lymphedema) is a severe manifestation of lymphedema usually due to lymphatic filariasis.
  • #6
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lymphoedema/causes/
    There are 2 types of lymphoedema primary and secondary lymphoedema which have different causes. […] Primary lymphoedema is caused by alterations (mutations) in genes responsible for the development of the lymphatic system. […] The faulty genes cause the parts of the lymphatic system responsible for draining fluid to not develop properly or not work as they should. […] Secondary lymphoedema develops in people who previously had a normal lymphatic system that then becomes damaged. […] It can have a number of different causes. […] Treatment for cancer can involve surgery to remove sections of the lymphatic system. […] There’s a particular risk of lymphoedema occurring after treatment for any cancer where lymph glands are removed. […] If radiotherapy is needed to destroy cancerous cells in your lymphatic system, there’s a risk that the lymphatic system could become permanently damaged and unable to drain fluid properly.
  • #7 Lymphedema and Cancer – Side Effects – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema
    Lymphedema may arise soon after cancer treatment, or it may develop years after treatment has ended. […] Anything that blocks or changes the flow of lymph fluid in the body can cause lymphedema. Cancer and cancer treatments can cause lymphedema when: cancer or a tumor blocks the flow of lymph fluid, surgery for cancer disrupts the flow of lymph fluid, radiation therapy causes scar tissue that blocks the flow of lymph fluid. […] Your risk for lymphedema depends on the type and location of your cancer and the treatments you have. Other risk factors for lymphedema include having an infection, healing slowly after surgery, having lymph nodes removed, past surgeries or radiation, having advanced cancer, and being overweight or having obesity. […] Treatment for breast cancer often involves surgery that removes one or more lymph nodes in the underarm area, increasing the risk of lymphedema.
  • #8 Causes and Types of Lymphedema | JOBST
    https://www.jobstcanada.com/living-with-your-condition/diagnoses/what-is-lymphedema/lymphedema-causes-and-types
    Primary and secondary lymphedema are the two main types of lymphedema. Missing, malformed or damaged lymph vessels or lymph nodes cause a blockage of the lymphatic system. Unable to drain properly, the protein-rich fluid called lymph or lymphatic fluid collects in the tissues, and results in swelling. […] Primary lymphedema is a rare condition caused by inadequate development of the lymphatic system from birth, due to genetic factors. Primary lymphedema develops as soon as the lymph vessel system can no longer cope with the strain. This usually happens in early life. It is called 'primary’ because the impairment is not due to a secondary cause like an illness or an injury. […] Primary lymphedema can have different causes: Aplasia: Parts of the lymphatic system are missing. Hypoplasia: Lymphatic vessels are underdeveloped or present in below-average numbers. This is the most common cause of primary lymphedema. Hyperplasia: Lymphatic vessels are larger than normal and don’t work as well as normal-sized vessels.
  • #9 Causes and Types of Lymphedema | JOBST
    https://www.jobstcanada.com/living-with-your-condition/diagnoses/what-is-lymphedema/lymphedema-causes-and-types
    Primary and secondary lymphedema are the two main types of lymphedema. Missing, malformed or damaged lymph vessels or lymph nodes cause a blockage of the lymphatic system. Unable to drain properly, the protein-rich fluid called lymph or lymphatic fluid collects in the tissues, and results in swelling. […] Primary lymphedema is a rare condition caused by inadequate development of the lymphatic system from birth, due to genetic factors. Primary lymphedema develops as soon as the lymph vessel system can no longer cope with the strain. This usually happens in early life. It is called 'primary’ because the impairment is not due to a secondary cause like an illness or an injury. […] Primary lymphedema can have different causes: Aplasia: Parts of the lymphatic system are missing. Hypoplasia: Lymphatic vessels are underdeveloped or present in below-average numbers. This is the most common cause of primary lymphedema. Hyperplasia: Lymphatic vessels are larger than normal and don’t work as well as normal-sized vessels.
  • #10 Causes and Types of Lymphedema | JOBST
    https://www.jobstcanada.com/living-with-your-condition/diagnoses/what-is-lymphedema/lymphedema-causes-and-types
    Primary and secondary lymphedema are the two main types of lymphedema. Missing, malformed or damaged lymph vessels or lymph nodes cause a blockage of the lymphatic system. Unable to drain properly, the protein-rich fluid called lymph or lymphatic fluid collects in the tissues, and results in swelling. […] Primary lymphedema is a rare condition caused by inadequate development of the lymphatic system from birth, due to genetic factors. Primary lymphedema develops as soon as the lymph vessel system can no longer cope with the strain. This usually happens in early life. It is called 'primary’ because the impairment is not due to a secondary cause like an illness or an injury. […] Primary lymphedema can have different causes: Aplasia: Parts of the lymphatic system are missing. Hypoplasia: Lymphatic vessels are underdeveloped or present in below-average numbers. This is the most common cause of primary lymphedema. Hyperplasia: Lymphatic vessels are larger than normal and don’t work as well as normal-sized vessels.
  • #11 Lymphedema: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1087313-overview
    Lymphedema is caused by a compromised lymphatic system that impedes and diminishes lymphatic return. In primary lymphedema, the failure is caused by congenital hypoplasia or aplasia of the peripheral lymphatics or by valvular incompetence. In secondary lymphedema, the lymphatic drainage is altered by an acquired blockade of the lymph nodes or by disruption of the local lymphatic channels caused by one of the following etiologies: […] Secondary lymphedema occurs as a result of obstruction of lymphatic flow by known mechanisms, including the following: […] Whether the cause is acquired blockade of the lymph nodes or disruption of the local lymphatic channels, the result is a failure to drain protein-rich lymphatic fluid from the tissue, causing interstitial edema with swelling of the affected site.
  • #12 What Is Lymphedema? Causes, Symptoms And Treatment | Prof. Dr. Saliha Eroğlu Demir
    https://drsalihaerogludemir.com/en/what-is-lymphedema-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/
    Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic load exceeds the carrying capacity of the lymphatic system. In contrast to generalised oedematous conditions, capillary filtration rate is normal in patients with lymphoedema. […] Primary lymphedema: This is caused by congenital and/or hereditary conditions (pathological development of lymphatic vessels). It is classified according to the age of onset: Congenital lymphedema (the onset of swelling is between birth and 2 years of age), Precocious lymphedema (during puberty or during pregnancy before the age of 35), Tarda lymphedema (after the age of 35). The incidence is 8% in newly diagnosed patients presenting to lymphedema clinics and 28% in lymphedema caused by non-cancer diseases. With the exception of tarda lymphedema, these conditions predominantly affect the lower extremities. Primary upper extremity lymphedema is rare. The average age of onset is 38, and the female to male ratio is 1.2. Most cases are not associated with a genetic condition.
  • #13 Lymphedema – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lymphedema
    Primary lymphedema may be congenital or may arise sporadically. […] Multiple syndromes are associated with primary lymphedema, including Turner syndrome, Milroy’s disease, and Klippel-Trnaunay syndrome. […] Secondary lymphedema affects both men and women, and, in Western countries, is most commonly due to cancer treatment. […] In women, it is most prevalent in an upper limb after breast cancer surgery, especially axillary lymph node dissection, and occurs on the same side of the body as the surgery. […] Between 38 and 89% of breast cancer patients have lymphedema due to axillary lymph node dissection or radiation. […] Unilateral lymphedema of a lower limb occurs in up to 41% of patients after gynecologic cancer. […] For men treated for prostate cancer, a 5-66% incidence has been reported, with the incidence rate depending on whether staging or radical removal of lymph glands was done in addition to radiotherapy.
  • #14 Lymphatic Dysfunction (Lymphedema): Symptoms and Treatments
    https://www.healthline.com/health/lymphatic-obstruction
    Lymphatic dysfunction happens when your lymphatic system isnt functioning correctly. […] A poorly working lymphatic system causes tissues to become swollen with fluid. This is called lymphedema. […] You can be born with a lymphatic problem that causes lymphedema. This is called hereditary or primary lymphedema. It can also result from a variety of complex genetic conditions. […] You can also develop lymphedema from a disease complication or injury. This is called secondary lymphedema. Its a common side effect of cancer treatment. […] There are several different causes of hereditary (primary) and secondary lymphatic dysfunction. […] Hereditary lymphedema is also known as primary lymphedema. […] Meige disease is the most common form of hereditary lymphedema, accounting for 80 percent of all cases. Its caused by a genetic mutation and affects the legs, arms, face, and larynx. […] Treatment for breast cancer with a mastectomy is one of the most common causes of secondary lymphedema. […] Cancer and radiation therapy can also cause lymphedema to develop. […] Lymphedema can also occur after treating cancers of the head and neck.
  • #15 Lymphedema: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1087313-overview
    Although etiology determines the classification of lymphedema as either primary or secondary, it rarely impacts the choice of treatment. […] In secondary lymphedema, the underlying etiology (ie, neoplasm, infection) should also be properly treated, in order to relieve the lymphatic obstruction. […] The most common cause of secondary lymphedema worldwide is filariasis, a disease caused by a mosquito-borne nematode infection with the parasite Wucheria bancrofti. […] In the industrialized world, the most common causes of secondary lymphedema are malignancy and its treatment. […] Morbid obesity frequently causes impairment of lymphatic return and commonly results in lymphedema. […] Recurrent episodes of cellulitis or streptococcal lymphangitis have also been linked to the development of lymphedema. […] Rarely, herpes simplex infection can cause lymphangitis and resultant lymphedema. […] The peptide adrenomedullin (AM) is encoded by the ADM gene. One report sought to determine if a deficiency in AM predisposes to secondary lymphedema.
  • #16 What Is Lymphedema? Causes, Symptoms And Treatment | Prof. Dr. Saliha Eroğlu Demir
    https://drsalihaerogludemir.com/en/what-is-lymphedema-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/
    Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic load exceeds the carrying capacity of the lymphatic system. In contrast to generalised oedematous conditions, capillary filtration rate is normal in patients with lymphoedema. […] Primary lymphedema: This is caused by congenital and/or hereditary conditions (pathological development of lymphatic vessels). It is classified according to the age of onset: Congenital lymphedema (the onset of swelling is between birth and 2 years of age), Precocious lymphedema (during puberty or during pregnancy before the age of 35), Tarda lymphedema (after the age of 35). The incidence is 8% in newly diagnosed patients presenting to lymphedema clinics and 28% in lymphedema caused by non-cancer diseases. With the exception of tarda lymphedema, these conditions predominantly affect the lower extremities. Primary upper extremity lymphedema is rare. The average age of onset is 38, and the female to male ratio is 1.2. Most cases are not associated with a genetic condition.
  • #17 Lymphedema – Cardiovascular Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/lymphatic-disorders/lymphedema
    Lymphedema may be […] Primary: Due to lymphatic hypoplasia […] Secondary: Due to obstruction or disruption of lymphatic vessels. […] Secondary lymphedema accounts for 95% of cases. […] Most common causes are Surgery (especially lymph node dissection, typically for treatment of breast cancer), Radiation therapy (especially axillary or inguinal), Trauma, Lymphatic obstruction by a tumor, Lymphatic filariasis (present in some tropical and subtropical areas). […] Mild lymphedema may also result from leakage of lymph into interstitial tissues in patients with chronic venous insufficiency. […] Cure is unusual once lymphedema occurs. […] Secondary lymphedema (due to obstruction or disruption of lymphatic vessels) is far more common than primary lymphedema (which is due to lymphatic hypoplasia). […] Elephantiasis (extreme hyperkeratosis of skin in a limb affected by lymphedema) is a severe manifestation of lymphedema usually due to lymphatic filariasis.
  • #18
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lymphoedema/
    Lymphoedema is caused by a problem with the lymphatic system, a network of vessels and glands spread throughout the body. The main functions of the lymphatic system are helping fight infection and draining excess fluid from tissues. […] There are 2 main types of lymphoedema: primary lymphoedema caused by faulty genes that affect the development of the lymphatic system; it can develop at any age, but usually starts during infancy, adolescence, or early adulthood […] secondary lymphoedema caused by damage to the lymphatic system or problems with the movement and drainage of fluid in the lymphatic system; it can be the result of a cancer treatment, an infection, injury, inflammation of the limb, or a lack of limb movement.
  • #19 Lymphedema: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1087313-overview
    Lymphedema is caused by a compromised lymphatic system that impedes and diminishes lymphatic return. In primary lymphedema, the failure is caused by congenital hypoplasia or aplasia of the peripheral lymphatics or by valvular incompetence. In secondary lymphedema, the lymphatic drainage is altered by an acquired blockade of the lymph nodes or by disruption of the local lymphatic channels caused by one of the following etiologies: […] Secondary lymphedema occurs as a result of obstruction of lymphatic flow by known mechanisms, including the following: […] Whether the cause is acquired blockade of the lymph nodes or disruption of the local lymphatic channels, the result is a failure to drain protein-rich lymphatic fluid from the tissue, causing interstitial edema with swelling of the affected site.
  • #20 Lymphedema: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1087313-overview
    Although etiology determines the classification of lymphedema as either primary or secondary, it rarely impacts the choice of treatment. […] In secondary lymphedema, the underlying etiology (ie, neoplasm, infection) should also be properly treated, in order to relieve the lymphatic obstruction. […] The most common cause of secondary lymphedema worldwide is filariasis, a disease caused by a mosquito-borne nematode infection with the parasite Wucheria bancrofti. […] In the industrialized world, the most common causes of secondary lymphedema are malignancy and its treatment. […] Morbid obesity frequently causes impairment of lymphatic return and commonly results in lymphedema. […] Recurrent episodes of cellulitis or streptococcal lymphangitis have also been linked to the development of lymphedema. […] Rarely, herpes simplex infection can cause lymphangitis and resultant lymphedema. […] The peptide adrenomedullin (AM) is encoded by the ADM gene. One report sought to determine if a deficiency in AM predisposes to secondary lymphedema.
  • #21 What is lymphedema? – Harvard Health
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/what-is-lymphedema
    Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system is damaged or not functioning properly. This can be caused by a genetic defect you are born with, or can result from another cause such as cancer (or its treatment), injury, and infection. If the vessels in the system are damaged or obstructed, the lymph fluid can’t circulate and drain properly, leading to fluid buildup. Causes include: […] The most common causes of lymphedema in the US are cancer and cancer treatments. It is estimated that one in five breast cancer survivors will develop lymphedema.
  • #22 Lymphedema | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/swelling/lymphedema.html
    Lymphedema can occur when the lymph system is damaged, which can prevent the lymph fluid from moving through the body. […] Any cancer that affects the lymph system can cause lymphedema. But its most common in certain cancers including: Breast cancer, Prostate cancer, Pelvic area cancers (such as bladder, penile, testicular, endometrial, vulvar, or cervical cancer), Lymphoma, Melanoma, Head and neck cancers. […] The risk for lymphedema is higher in these cancers because they often require surgery or radiation that involves lymph nodes. […] Some surgeries to treat cancer (for example, most breast cancer surgeries) include removing one or more lymph nodes. […] The more lymph nodes removed, the higher your risk for lymphedema. […] Radiation therapy can also cause lymphedema. Radiation can damage or scar nearby lymph nodes.
  • #23 Lymphedema and Cancer – Side Effects – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema
    Lymphedema may arise soon after cancer treatment, or it may develop years after treatment has ended. […] Anything that blocks or changes the flow of lymph fluid in the body can cause lymphedema. Cancer and cancer treatments can cause lymphedema when: cancer or a tumor blocks the flow of lymph fluid, surgery for cancer disrupts the flow of lymph fluid, radiation therapy causes scar tissue that blocks the flow of lymph fluid. […] Your risk for lymphedema depends on the type and location of your cancer and the treatments you have. Other risk factors for lymphedema include having an infection, healing slowly after surgery, having lymph nodes removed, past surgeries or radiation, having advanced cancer, and being overweight or having obesity. […] Treatment for breast cancer often involves surgery that removes one or more lymph nodes in the underarm area, increasing the risk of lymphedema.
  • #24 Lymphedema – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphedema/symptoms-causes/syc-20374682
    Lymphedema can be caused by cancer treatments that remove or damage your lymph nodes. Any type of problem that blocks the drainage of lymph fluid can cause lymphedema. […] Lymphedema occurs when the lymph vessels are not able to adequately drain lymph fluid, usually from an arm or leg. […] The most common causes of lymphedema include: Cancer. If cancer cells block lymph vessels, lymphedema may result. For instance, a tumor growing near a lymph node or lymph vessel could enlarge enough to block the flow of the lymph fluid. Radiation treatment for cancer. Radiation can cause scarring and inflammation of lymph nodes or lymph vessels. Surgery. In cancer surgery, lymph nodes are often removed to see if the disease has spread. However, this doesn’t always result in lymphedema. Parasites. In developing countries in the tropics, the most common cause of lymphedema is infection with threadlike worms that clog the lymph nodes. […] Less commonly, lymphedema results from inherited conditions in which the lymphatic system doesn’t develop properly.
  • #25 Lymphedema | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/swelling/lymphedema.html
    Lymphedema can occur when the lymph system is damaged, which can prevent the lymph fluid from moving through the body. […] Any cancer that affects the lymph system can cause lymphedema. But its most common in certain cancers including: Breast cancer, Prostate cancer, Pelvic area cancers (such as bladder, penile, testicular, endometrial, vulvar, or cervical cancer), Lymphoma, Melanoma, Head and neck cancers. […] The risk for lymphedema is higher in these cancers because they often require surgery or radiation that involves lymph nodes. […] Some surgeries to treat cancer (for example, most breast cancer surgeries) include removing one or more lymph nodes. […] The more lymph nodes removed, the higher your risk for lymphedema. […] Radiation therapy can also cause lymphedema. Radiation can damage or scar nearby lymph nodes.
  • #26 Lymphedema – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphedema/symptoms-causes/syc-20374682
    Lymphedema can be caused by cancer treatments that remove or damage your lymph nodes. Any type of problem that blocks the drainage of lymph fluid can cause lymphedema. […] Lymphedema occurs when the lymph vessels are not able to adequately drain lymph fluid, usually from an arm or leg. […] The most common causes of lymphedema include: Cancer. If cancer cells block lymph vessels, lymphedema may result. For instance, a tumor growing near a lymph node or lymph vessel could enlarge enough to block the flow of the lymph fluid. Radiation treatment for cancer. Radiation can cause scarring and inflammation of lymph nodes or lymph vessels. Surgery. In cancer surgery, lymph nodes are often removed to see if the disease has spread. However, this doesn’t always result in lymphedema. Parasites. In developing countries in the tropics, the most common cause of lymphedema is infection with threadlike worms that clog the lymph nodes. […] Less commonly, lymphedema results from inherited conditions in which the lymphatic system doesn’t develop properly.
  • #27 Lymphedema and Cancer – Side Effects – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema
    Lymphedema may arise soon after cancer treatment, or it may develop years after treatment has ended. […] Anything that blocks or changes the flow of lymph fluid in the body can cause lymphedema. Cancer and cancer treatments can cause lymphedema when: cancer or a tumor blocks the flow of lymph fluid, surgery for cancer disrupts the flow of lymph fluid, radiation therapy causes scar tissue that blocks the flow of lymph fluid. […] Your risk for lymphedema depends on the type and location of your cancer and the treatments you have. Other risk factors for lymphedema include having an infection, healing slowly after surgery, having lymph nodes removed, past surgeries or radiation, having advanced cancer, and being overweight or having obesity. […] Treatment for breast cancer often involves surgery that removes one or more lymph nodes in the underarm area, increasing the risk of lymphedema.
  • #28 What Is Lymphedema? Causes, Symptoms And Treatment | Prof. Dr. Saliha Eroğlu Demir
    https://drsalihaerogludemir.com/en/what-is-lymphedema-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/
    Secondary lymphedema: This is lymphedema that occurs as a result of other diseases or treatments. Etiology and risk factors in developed countries, the most common cause is cancer or cancer treatment. The most common cause worldwide is filariasis. Other risk factors include: advanced age, obesity, inflammatory arthritis, infection, chronic venous insufficiency, trauma, and iatrogenic causes. Cancer-related lymphedema can be of two types: Infiltration of lymphatic vessels: by infiltration of tumor cells into lymphatic channels. The most common cancer associated with lymphedema is breast cancer. In a systematic review, the rate in breast cancer patients is 17%. The risk is highest in the first 2 years after diagnosis. Risk factors include axillary node dissection, the number of axillary nodes removed, mastectomy rather than local excision, and a high body mass index.
  • #29 Lymphedema | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/swelling/lymphedema.html
    Lymphedema can occur when the lymph system is damaged, which can prevent the lymph fluid from moving through the body. […] Any cancer that affects the lymph system can cause lymphedema. But its most common in certain cancers including: Breast cancer, Prostate cancer, Pelvic area cancers (such as bladder, penile, testicular, endometrial, vulvar, or cervical cancer), Lymphoma, Melanoma, Head and neck cancers. […] The risk for lymphedema is higher in these cancers because they often require surgery or radiation that involves lymph nodes. […] Some surgeries to treat cancer (for example, most breast cancer surgeries) include removing one or more lymph nodes. […] The more lymph nodes removed, the higher your risk for lymphedema. […] Radiation therapy can also cause lymphedema. Radiation can damage or scar nearby lymph nodes.
  • #30 Lymphedema | American Cancer Society
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/swelling/lymphedema.html
    Lymphedema can occur when the lymph system is damaged, which can prevent the lymph fluid from moving through the body. […] Any cancer that affects the lymph system can cause lymphedema. But its most common in certain cancers including: Breast cancer, Prostate cancer, Pelvic area cancers (such as bladder, penile, testicular, endometrial, vulvar, or cervical cancer), Lymphoma, Melanoma, Head and neck cancers. […] The risk for lymphedema is higher in these cancers because they often require surgery or radiation that involves lymph nodes. […] Some surgeries to treat cancer (for example, most breast cancer surgeries) include removing one or more lymph nodes. […] The more lymph nodes removed, the higher your risk for lymphedema. […] Radiation therapy can also cause lymphedema. Radiation can damage or scar nearby lymph nodes.
  • #31 What Is Lymphedema? Causes, Symptoms And Treatment | Prof. Dr. Saliha Eroğlu Demir
    https://drsalihaerogludemir.com/en/what-is-lymphedema-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/
    Secondary lymphedema: This is lymphedema that occurs as a result of other diseases or treatments. Etiology and risk factors in developed countries, the most common cause is cancer or cancer treatment. The most common cause worldwide is filariasis. Other risk factors include: advanced age, obesity, inflammatory arthritis, infection, chronic venous insufficiency, trauma, and iatrogenic causes. Cancer-related lymphedema can be of two types: Infiltration of lymphatic vessels: by infiltration of tumor cells into lymphatic channels. The most common cancer associated with lymphedema is breast cancer. In a systematic review, the rate in breast cancer patients is 17%. The risk is highest in the first 2 years after diagnosis. Risk factors include axillary node dissection, the number of axillary nodes removed, mastectomy rather than local excision, and a high body mass index.
  • #32 Lymphedema and Cancer – Side Effects – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema
    Lymphedema may arise soon after cancer treatment, or it may develop years after treatment has ended. […] Anything that blocks or changes the flow of lymph fluid in the body can cause lymphedema. Cancer and cancer treatments can cause lymphedema when: cancer or a tumor blocks the flow of lymph fluid, surgery for cancer disrupts the flow of lymph fluid, radiation therapy causes scar tissue that blocks the flow of lymph fluid. […] Your risk for lymphedema depends on the type and location of your cancer and the treatments you have. Other risk factors for lymphedema include having an infection, healing slowly after surgery, having lymph nodes removed, past surgeries or radiation, having advanced cancer, and being overweight or having obesity. […] Treatment for breast cancer often involves surgery that removes one or more lymph nodes in the underarm area, increasing the risk of lymphedema.
  • #33 Lymphoedema – symptoms, treatments and causes | healthdirect
    https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/lymphoedema
    Lymphoedema is a long-term condition where a build-up of lymph fluid in your body’s soft tissues causes swelling. […] There are 2 main types of lymphoedema: primary lymphoedema and secondary lymphoedema. […] Lymphoedema can also be a mix of the primary and secondary types. […] Primary lymphoedema can be due to a genetic condition. People affected by this form of lymphoedema are born with an abnormality of their lymphatic system. […] Secondary lymphoedema is caused by damage to, or blockage of, your lymphatic system due to: surgery lymph nodes are often removed as part of cancer surgery, radiotherapy for cancer, trauma or tissue damage, infection (filariasis), cancer, obesity. […] Lymphoedema may occur immediately after your lymphatic system has been damaged or blocked, or it may develop years later.
  • #34
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lymphoedema/causes/
    An infection, such as cellulitis, can sometimes cause lymphoedema. […] Filariasis can also cause lymphoedema. […] Medical conditions that cause tissue to become red and swollen can also permanently damage the lymphatic system. […] Diseases that affect the flow of blood through the veins can cause lymphoedema in some people. […] Obesity is another possible cause of secondary lymphoedema. […] In a small number of cases, lymphoedema can be caused by an accidental injury to the lymphatic system. […] Reduced movement can therefore lead to lymphoedema because the fluid in the lymphatic system does not get moved along.
  • #35 Lymphedema: Symptoms, treatments, and causes
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/180919
    Infections: Severe cellulitis infection may damage tissue around the lymph nodes or vessels. This may lead to scarring, increasing the risk of lymphedema. Some parasite infections can also increase the risk of lymphedema. […] Inflammatory conditions: Conditions that cause tissue to swell (become inflamed) may permanently damage the lymphatic system, such as rheumatoid arthritis and eczema. […] Cardiovascular diseases: These are diseases that affect blood flow. Some patients with cardiovascular diseases have a higher risk of developing lymphedema, such as DVT (deep vein thrombosis), venous leg ulcers, and varicose veins. […] Injury and trauma: More rarely, severe skin burns or anything that results in excessive scarring may raise the risk of developing lymphedema.
  • #36 Lymphedema: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1087313-overview
    Although etiology determines the classification of lymphedema as either primary or secondary, it rarely impacts the choice of treatment. […] In secondary lymphedema, the underlying etiology (ie, neoplasm, infection) should also be properly treated, in order to relieve the lymphatic obstruction. […] The most common cause of secondary lymphedema worldwide is filariasis, a disease caused by a mosquito-borne nematode infection with the parasite Wucheria bancrofti. […] In the industrialized world, the most common causes of secondary lymphedema are malignancy and its treatment. […] Morbid obesity frequently causes impairment of lymphatic return and commonly results in lymphedema. […] Recurrent episodes of cellulitis or streptococcal lymphangitis have also been linked to the development of lymphedema. […] Rarely, herpes simplex infection can cause lymphangitis and resultant lymphedema. […] The peptide adrenomedullin (AM) is encoded by the ADM gene. One report sought to determine if a deficiency in AM predisposes to secondary lymphedema.
  • #37
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lymphoedema/causes/
    An infection, such as cellulitis, can sometimes cause lymphoedema. […] Filariasis can also cause lymphoedema. […] Medical conditions that cause tissue to become red and swollen can also permanently damage the lymphatic system. […] Diseases that affect the flow of blood through the veins can cause lymphoedema in some people. […] Obesity is another possible cause of secondary lymphoedema. […] In a small number of cases, lymphoedema can be caused by an accidental injury to the lymphatic system. […] Reduced movement can therefore lead to lymphoedema because the fluid in the lymphatic system does not get moved along.
  • #38 Lymphedema – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphedema/symptoms-causes/syc-20374682
    Lymphedema can be caused by cancer treatments that remove or damage your lymph nodes. Any type of problem that blocks the drainage of lymph fluid can cause lymphedema. […] Lymphedema occurs when the lymph vessels are not able to adequately drain lymph fluid, usually from an arm or leg. […] The most common causes of lymphedema include: Cancer. If cancer cells block lymph vessels, lymphedema may result. For instance, a tumor growing near a lymph node or lymph vessel could enlarge enough to block the flow of the lymph fluid. Radiation treatment for cancer. Radiation can cause scarring and inflammation of lymph nodes or lymph vessels. Surgery. In cancer surgery, lymph nodes are often removed to see if the disease has spread. However, this doesn’t always result in lymphedema. Parasites. In developing countries in the tropics, the most common cause of lymphedema is infection with threadlike worms that clog the lymph nodes. […] Less commonly, lymphedema results from inherited conditions in which the lymphatic system doesn’t develop properly.
  • #39 Lymphedema: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1087313-overview
    Although etiology determines the classification of lymphedema as either primary or secondary, it rarely impacts the choice of treatment. […] In secondary lymphedema, the underlying etiology (ie, neoplasm, infection) should also be properly treated, in order to relieve the lymphatic obstruction. […] The most common cause of secondary lymphedema worldwide is filariasis, a disease caused by a mosquito-borne nematode infection with the parasite Wucheria bancrofti. […] In the industrialized world, the most common causes of secondary lymphedema are malignancy and its treatment. […] Morbid obesity frequently causes impairment of lymphatic return and commonly results in lymphedema. […] Recurrent episodes of cellulitis or streptococcal lymphangitis have also been linked to the development of lymphedema. […] Rarely, herpes simplex infection can cause lymphangitis and resultant lymphedema. […] The peptide adrenomedullin (AM) is encoded by the ADM gene. One report sought to determine if a deficiency in AM predisposes to secondary lymphedema.
  • #40 Lymphedema: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1087313-overview
    Although etiology determines the classification of lymphedema as either primary or secondary, it rarely impacts the choice of treatment. […] In secondary lymphedema, the underlying etiology (ie, neoplasm, infection) should also be properly treated, in order to relieve the lymphatic obstruction. […] The most common cause of secondary lymphedema worldwide is filariasis, a disease caused by a mosquito-borne nematode infection with the parasite Wucheria bancrofti. […] In the industrialized world, the most common causes of secondary lymphedema are malignancy and its treatment. […] Morbid obesity frequently causes impairment of lymphatic return and commonly results in lymphedema. […] Recurrent episodes of cellulitis or streptococcal lymphangitis have also been linked to the development of lymphedema. […] Rarely, herpes simplex infection can cause lymphangitis and resultant lymphedema. […] The peptide adrenomedullin (AM) is encoded by the ADM gene. One report sought to determine if a deficiency in AM predisposes to secondary lymphedema.
  • #41 Lymphedema: Symptoms, treatments, and causes
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/180919
    Infections: Severe cellulitis infection may damage tissue around the lymph nodes or vessels. This may lead to scarring, increasing the risk of lymphedema. Some parasite infections can also increase the risk of lymphedema. […] Inflammatory conditions: Conditions that cause tissue to swell (become inflamed) may permanently damage the lymphatic system, such as rheumatoid arthritis and eczema. […] Cardiovascular diseases: These are diseases that affect blood flow. Some patients with cardiovascular diseases have a higher risk of developing lymphedema, such as DVT (deep vein thrombosis), venous leg ulcers, and varicose veins. […] Injury and trauma: More rarely, severe skin burns or anything that results in excessive scarring may raise the risk of developing lymphedema.
  • #42 Lymphedema: Symptoms, treatments, and causes
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/180919
    Infections: Severe cellulitis infection may damage tissue around the lymph nodes or vessels. This may lead to scarring, increasing the risk of lymphedema. Some parasite infections can also increase the risk of lymphedema. […] Inflammatory conditions: Conditions that cause tissue to swell (become inflamed) may permanently damage the lymphatic system, such as rheumatoid arthritis and eczema. […] Cardiovascular diseases: These are diseases that affect blood flow. Some patients with cardiovascular diseases have a higher risk of developing lymphedema, such as DVT (deep vein thrombosis), venous leg ulcers, and varicose veins. […] Injury and trauma: More rarely, severe skin burns or anything that results in excessive scarring may raise the risk of developing lymphedema.
  • #43 Lymphedema: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8353-lymphedema
    Trauma: Your lymphatic system is a rich network of vessels that are directly under your skin, as well as deep. Sometimes, trauma to an area of your body may damage lymphatic vessels under your skin, causing lymphedema. […] Infection: An infection may increase lymphatic system damage. […] Having obesity: People who have obesity may have excess fat (adipose tissue) that puts pressure on lymph nodes and vessels. That extra pressure may affect lymphatic drainage. […] Lack of activity: Your leg muscles pump up lymphatic circulation. If you’re not active, you may have swelling in your legs. […] Tumors: Tumors may block lymphatic drainage. […] Heart conditions: People who have heart issues, particularly congestive heart failure, may develop lymphedema. Your lymphatic ducts empty lymph back into your heart. If your heart isn’t working as well as it should, you may notice you’re gaining weight or your legs are swollen.
  • #44 Lymphoedema
    https://dermnetnz.org/topics/lymphoedema
    Lymphoedema is the name given to the swelling that occurs because of a damaged or blocked lymphatic system. […] Oedema (swelling) occurs when excess fluid and protein from damaged blood vessels (e.g. after a burn or ankle sprain) enters into the lymphatic system at a rate too fast for the lymph to be carried away. […] Impaired functioning of the lymphatic system is caused by some other condition or factor. […] Chronic venous insufficiency due to incompetent superficial and/or deep veins in the lower legs resulting in venous hypertension (increased pressure) and secondary damage to the lymphatic system. […] Surgery removal of lymph nodes when treating some cancers, eg, breast, prostate. […] Radiotherapy used to treat cancer but can cause scar tissue that interrupts lymphatic flow. […] Accidental trauma, injury or infection (eg cellulitis) that directly damages lymph vessels. […] Lymphatic filariasis.
  • #45 Lymphoedema: Causes, treatment, quality of life | medi
    https://www.medi.de/en/diagnosis-treatment/lymphoedema/lymphoedema-disease/
    Lymphoedema may be congenital (primary lymphoedema) or may only form in the course of life (secondary lymphoedema). […] This type of lymphoedema is congenital. In most cases, lymph channels or lymph nodes were not properly formed or were malformed. […] This form of lymphoedema refers to oedema that only occurs in the course of life and is not congenital. Secondary lymphoedema results from external influences: […] In Germany, secondary lymphoedema often occurs as a result of cancer. The lymphatic vessel system can be damaged by the cancer. […] Lipo-lymphoedema is a consequence of lipoedema. This is a chronic fat distribution disorder of the subcutaneous fatty tissue on the legs and arms. If the subcutaneous fatty tissue exerts considerable pressure on the lymphatic channels, secondary lymphoedema may occur. […] Chronic venous diseases can also be the cause of secondary lymphoedema. This is known as phlebo-lymphoedema. With chronic venous insufficiency, there is increased fluid leakage into the tissue.
  • #46 Lymphedema: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8353-lymphedema
    Trauma: Your lymphatic system is a rich network of vessels that are directly under your skin, as well as deep. Sometimes, trauma to an area of your body may damage lymphatic vessels under your skin, causing lymphedema. […] Infection: An infection may increase lymphatic system damage. […] Having obesity: People who have obesity may have excess fat (adipose tissue) that puts pressure on lymph nodes and vessels. That extra pressure may affect lymphatic drainage. […] Lack of activity: Your leg muscles pump up lymphatic circulation. If you’re not active, you may have swelling in your legs. […] Tumors: Tumors may block lymphatic drainage. […] Heart conditions: People who have heart issues, particularly congestive heart failure, may develop lymphedema. Your lymphatic ducts empty lymph back into your heart. If your heart isn’t working as well as it should, you may notice you’re gaining weight or your legs are swollen.
  • #47 Lymphedema: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8353-lymphedema
    Trauma: Your lymphatic system is a rich network of vessels that are directly under your skin, as well as deep. Sometimes, trauma to an area of your body may damage lymphatic vessels under your skin, causing lymphedema. […] Infection: An infection may increase lymphatic system damage. […] Having obesity: People who have obesity may have excess fat (adipose tissue) that puts pressure on lymph nodes and vessels. That extra pressure may affect lymphatic drainage. […] Lack of activity: Your leg muscles pump up lymphatic circulation. If you’re not active, you may have swelling in your legs. […] Tumors: Tumors may block lymphatic drainage. […] Heart conditions: People who have heart issues, particularly congestive heart failure, may develop lymphedema. Your lymphatic ducts empty lymph back into your heart. If your heart isn’t working as well as it should, you may notice you’re gaining weight or your legs are swollen.
  • #48 Lymphedema: Symptoms, treatments, and causes
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/180919
    Infections: Severe cellulitis infection may damage tissue around the lymph nodes or vessels. This may lead to scarring, increasing the risk of lymphedema. Some parasite infections can also increase the risk of lymphedema. […] Inflammatory conditions: Conditions that cause tissue to swell (become inflamed) may permanently damage the lymphatic system, such as rheumatoid arthritis and eczema. […] Cardiovascular diseases: These are diseases that affect blood flow. Some patients with cardiovascular diseases have a higher risk of developing lymphedema, such as DVT (deep vein thrombosis), venous leg ulcers, and varicose veins. […] Injury and trauma: More rarely, severe skin burns or anything that results in excessive scarring may raise the risk of developing lymphedema.
  • #49 Primary vs. Secondary Lymphedema: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment  – PAM Health
    https://pamhealth.com/resources/primary-vs-secondary-lymphedema-symptoms-causes-and-treatments/
    Cancer treatment can also cause secondary lymphedema. […] Surgery on the chest, such as surgery to address breast cancer, can also lead to secondary lymphedema. […] Infection following surgery could increase the risk of secondary lymphedema. […] Trauma: The lymphatic system rests less than half an inch beneath the surface of the skin. […] Other health conditions: Conditions that affect other organs in the body can contribute to the development of secondary lymphedema.
  • #50 Lymphedema Causes & Treatment | CHRISTUS Health
    https://www.christushealth.org/get-care/services-specialties/heart-vascular/vascular/lymphedema
    Lymphedema occurs when lymphatic fluid builds up in the soft tissues of your body, usually in an arm or leg. […] The most common causes of secondary lymphedema are surgery or radiation treatment for certain types of cancer, such as breast and testicular cancers. Other causes of lymphedema include surgery on the blood vessels in your limbs, other surgical procedures like liposuction, and burns.
  • #51 Lymphedema: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8353-lymphedema
    Trauma: Your lymphatic system is a rich network of vessels that are directly under your skin, as well as deep. Sometimes, trauma to an area of your body may damage lymphatic vessels under your skin, causing lymphedema. […] Infection: An infection may increase lymphatic system damage. […] Having obesity: People who have obesity may have excess fat (adipose tissue) that puts pressure on lymph nodes and vessels. That extra pressure may affect lymphatic drainage. […] Lack of activity: Your leg muscles pump up lymphatic circulation. If you’re not active, you may have swelling in your legs. […] Tumors: Tumors may block lymphatic drainage. […] Heart conditions: People who have heart issues, particularly congestive heart failure, may develop lymphedema. Your lymphatic ducts empty lymph back into your heart. If your heart isn’t working as well as it should, you may notice you’re gaining weight or your legs are swollen.
  • #52 Lymphedema and Cancer – Side Effects – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema
    Lymphedema may arise soon after cancer treatment, or it may develop years after treatment has ended. […] Anything that blocks or changes the flow of lymph fluid in the body can cause lymphedema. Cancer and cancer treatments can cause lymphedema when: cancer or a tumor blocks the flow of lymph fluid, surgery for cancer disrupts the flow of lymph fluid, radiation therapy causes scar tissue that blocks the flow of lymph fluid. […] Your risk for lymphedema depends on the type and location of your cancer and the treatments you have. Other risk factors for lymphedema include having an infection, healing slowly after surgery, having lymph nodes removed, past surgeries or radiation, having advanced cancer, and being overweight or having obesity. […] Treatment for breast cancer often involves surgery that removes one or more lymph nodes in the underarm area, increasing the risk of lymphedema.
  • #53 Lymphedema: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8353-lymphedema
    Trauma: Your lymphatic system is a rich network of vessels that are directly under your skin, as well as deep. Sometimes, trauma to an area of your body may damage lymphatic vessels under your skin, causing lymphedema. […] Infection: An infection may increase lymphatic system damage. […] Having obesity: People who have obesity may have excess fat (adipose tissue) that puts pressure on lymph nodes and vessels. That extra pressure may affect lymphatic drainage. […] Lack of activity: Your leg muscles pump up lymphatic circulation. If you’re not active, you may have swelling in your legs. […] Tumors: Tumors may block lymphatic drainage. […] Heart conditions: People who have heart issues, particularly congestive heart failure, may develop lymphedema. Your lymphatic ducts empty lymph back into your heart. If your heart isn’t working as well as it should, you may notice you’re gaining weight or your legs are swollen.
  • #54 Center for Lymphatic Disease | UC Davis Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
    https://health.ucdavis.edu/plasticsurgery/procedures/lymphatic-symptoms.html
    Lymphedema is caused by damage to the lymphatic system. Reasons for this damage include: […] Primary lymphedema is caused by changes or mutations in genes that are responsible for developing the lymphatic system. These changes can cause dysfunction that is apparent at birth, early in life or even later in life. […] Secondary lymphedema (more common) is usually caused when the lymphatic system is damaged due to cancer surgery, radiation therapy, infection, trauma or other causes. […] The most common type of secondary lymphedema in the United States is related to surgery in cancer patients, often when combined with radiation. […] Secondary lymphedema can also be due to other conditions including lipedema, obesity and venous conditions. In these instances, the swelling is categorized as lipo-lymphedema, obesity-induced lymphedema, and phlebolymphedema, respectively.
  • #55 Lymphedema: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8353-lymphedema
    Trauma: Your lymphatic system is a rich network of vessels that are directly under your skin, as well as deep. Sometimes, trauma to an area of your body may damage lymphatic vessels under your skin, causing lymphedema. […] Infection: An infection may increase lymphatic system damage. […] Having obesity: People who have obesity may have excess fat (adipose tissue) that puts pressure on lymph nodes and vessels. That extra pressure may affect lymphatic drainage. […] Lack of activity: Your leg muscles pump up lymphatic circulation. If you’re not active, you may have swelling in your legs. […] Tumors: Tumors may block lymphatic drainage. […] Heart conditions: People who have heart issues, particularly congestive heart failure, may develop lymphedema. Your lymphatic ducts empty lymph back into your heart. If your heart isn’t working as well as it should, you may notice you’re gaining weight or your legs are swollen.
  • #56 Lymphedema: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8353-lymphedema
    Blood vessel issues: Your blood vessels carry between 80% and 90% of fluid throughout your body. When something affects your blood vessels (vascular system), you may develop chronic blood vessel issues. Chronic blood vessel issues may cause lymphedema. […] Kidney disease: Your kidneys work to remove extra fluid and waste products from your body. If your kidneys don’t function as they should, your body may have trouble removing fluid. Excess fluid may cause swelling that leads to lymphedema.
  • #57 What Is Lymphoedema
    https://www.thebls.com/pages/what-is-lymphoedema
    Surgery or treatment that removes or damages areas where there are a lot of lymph nodes, such as cancer of the breast, pelvic area (gynaecological or genito-urinary cancers in men), melanoma, head and neck cancer. Orthopaedic surgery also carries risks. […] Conditions that inhibit mobility and activity, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis and frailty. […] Some medications, such as calcium channel blockers used to treat hypertension, especially amlodipine. Others include corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and sex hormones.
  • #58 Lymphedema – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lymphedema
    Head and neck lymphedema can be caused by surgery or radiation therapy for tongue or throat cancer. […] The onset of secondary lymphedema in patients who have had cancer surgery has also been linked to aircraft flight (likely due to decreased cabin pressure or relative immobility). […] Some cases of lower-limb lymphedema have been associated with the use of tamoxifen, due to blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) associated with this medication. […] Hereditary lymphedema is a primary lymphedema swelling that results from abnormalities in the lymphatic system that are present from birth. […] The most common cause is Meige disease which usually presents at puberty. […] Another form of hereditary lymphedema is Milroy’s disease, caused by mutations in the VEGFR3 gene. […] One defined genetic cause for hereditary lymphedema is GATA2 deficiency. […] Primary lymphedema occurs in approximately one to three births out of every 10,000 births, with a female to male ratio of 3.5:1. […] Compared to secondary lymphedema, primary lymphedema is relatively rare.
  • #59 What Triggers Lymphedema?
    https://www.emedicinehealth.com/what_triggers_lymphedema/article_em.htm
    Lymphedema, or swelling caused by lymph accumulation, can have a variety of causes, from genetic malformations of the lymph system to cancer, surgery or infection. […] Primary lymphedema is caused by hereditary or genetic abnormalities that cause malformation of the lymphatic system. […] Secondary lymphedema is more common than primary lymphedema and is caused by damage or trauma to the lymphatic system. Causes of damage to the lymph system include: Cancer, Cancer-related surgery, Can include surgery to remove lymph nodes or vessels that carry lymph fluid, Radiation therapy, Traumatic injury, Obesity, Parasitic infection. […] When the lymph system is damaged, such as from cancer, surgery, or radiation, lymphedema may not occur right away but may develop years later. Triggers for lymphedema include: Air travel, due to changes in air pressure, Injury to the affected area, Wounds or skin punctures, such as insect bites or injections, Skin infections on the affected area, Excessive heat exposure, including sunburn, Excess load on a limb such as from carrying heavy bags or standing for long periods on a susceptible leg, Limb constriction from blood pressure tests, tight clothes, and jewelry.
  • #60 Lymphedema – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lymphedema
    Head and neck lymphedema can be caused by surgery or radiation therapy for tongue or throat cancer. […] The onset of secondary lymphedema in patients who have had cancer surgery has also been linked to aircraft flight (likely due to decreased cabin pressure or relative immobility). […] Some cases of lower-limb lymphedema have been associated with the use of tamoxifen, due to blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) associated with this medication. […] Hereditary lymphedema is a primary lymphedema swelling that results from abnormalities in the lymphatic system that are present from birth. […] The most common cause is Meige disease which usually presents at puberty. […] Another form of hereditary lymphedema is Milroy’s disease, caused by mutations in the VEGFR3 gene. […] One defined genetic cause for hereditary lymphedema is GATA2 deficiency. […] Primary lymphedema occurs in approximately one to three births out of every 10,000 births, with a female to male ratio of 3.5:1. […] Compared to secondary lymphedema, primary lymphedema is relatively rare.
  • #61 Lymphedema – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lymphedema
    Lymphedema may be inherited (primary) or caused by injury to the lymphatic vessels (secondary). […] There are also risk factors that may increase one’s risk of developing lymphedema such as old age, being overweight or obese, and having rheumatic or psoriatic arthritis. […] Lymphedema is most commonly seen after lymph node dissection, surgery or radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer, most notably breast cancer. […] Lymphedema may also be associated with accidents or certain diseases or conditions that may inhibit the lymphatic system from functioning properly. […] It can also be caused by damage to the lymphatic system from infections such as cellulitis. […] In tropical areas of the world where parasitic filarial worms are endemic, a common cause of secondary lymphedema is filariasis.
  • #62 Lymphedema and Cancer – Side Effects – NCI
    https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects/lymphedema
    Lymphedema may arise soon after cancer treatment, or it may develop years after treatment has ended. […] Anything that blocks or changes the flow of lymph fluid in the body can cause lymphedema. Cancer and cancer treatments can cause lymphedema when: cancer or a tumor blocks the flow of lymph fluid, surgery for cancer disrupts the flow of lymph fluid, radiation therapy causes scar tissue that blocks the flow of lymph fluid. […] Your risk for lymphedema depends on the type and location of your cancer and the treatments you have. Other risk factors for lymphedema include having an infection, healing slowly after surgery, having lymph nodes removed, past surgeries or radiation, having advanced cancer, and being overweight or having obesity. […] Treatment for breast cancer often involves surgery that removes one or more lymph nodes in the underarm area, increasing the risk of lymphedema.
  • #63 Lymphedema – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lymphedema
    Lymphedema may be inherited (primary) or caused by injury to the lymphatic vessels (secondary). […] There are also risk factors that may increase one’s risk of developing lymphedema such as old age, being overweight or obese, and having rheumatic or psoriatic arthritis. […] Lymphedema is most commonly seen after lymph node dissection, surgery or radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer, most notably breast cancer. […] Lymphedema may also be associated with accidents or certain diseases or conditions that may inhibit the lymphatic system from functioning properly. […] It can also be caused by damage to the lymphatic system from infections such as cellulitis. […] In tropical areas of the world where parasitic filarial worms are endemic, a common cause of secondary lymphedema is filariasis.
  • #64 Lymphedema: Practice Essentials, Background, Pathophysiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1087313-overview
    Lymphedema is caused by a compromised lymphatic system that impedes and diminishes lymphatic return. In primary lymphedema, the failure is caused by congenital hypoplasia or aplasia of the peripheral lymphatics or by valvular incompetence. In secondary lymphedema, the lymphatic drainage is altered by an acquired blockade of the lymph nodes or by disruption of the local lymphatic channels caused by one of the following etiologies: […] Secondary lymphedema occurs as a result of obstruction of lymphatic flow by known mechanisms, including the following: […] Whether the cause is acquired blockade of the lymph nodes or disruption of the local lymphatic channels, the result is a failure to drain protein-rich lymphatic fluid from the tissue, causing interstitial edema with swelling of the affected site.
  • #65 A review on lymphoedema – causes, confusions and complications – IJCED
    https://www.ijced.org/html-article/12749
    Lymphoedema is a chronic, progressive debilitating disorder of lymphoreticular system, characterized by abnormal collection of excessive proteins, oedema, chronic inflammation and fibrosis. […] Primary lymphoedema, associated with underlying, but inherent malfunction of lymphatic channels, unilateral or bilateral. It can be further subdivided in to congenital lymphoedema, lymphoedema praecox and lymphoedema tarda. […] Another genetic disorder of lymphatic dysfunction is Milroy disease. It is an autosomal dominant condition due to VEGFR3 mutation characterised by lymphatic hypoplasia. Secondary lymphoedemas are more frequent than primary to dysfunction of lymphatics. Mostly localised, following recurrent infections, trauma, surgery, obesity and malignancy. […] Inadequate drainage of lymphatics, leads to accumulation of lymph, interstitial fluid and proteins in skin and subcutaneous tissue.
  • #66 What Causes Lymphedema – LIVE Today Foundation
    https://www.live-today.org/what-causes-lymphedema.html
    Progression of lymphedema to irreversible stages is due to the bodys inflammatory response over time as it tries to get rid of the proteins in the interstitial fluid. The inflammatory response leads to tissue fibrosis (thickening or scarring) and deposition of fatty tissue. Some people develop fibrosis and fatty tissue deposition very quickly, and some go years and have very little irreversible changes.
  • #67 Center for Lymphatic Disease | UC Davis Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
    https://health.ucdavis.edu/plasticsurgery/procedures/lymphatic-symptoms.html
    Lymphedema is caused by damage to the lymphatic system. Reasons for this damage include: […] Primary lymphedema is caused by changes or mutations in genes that are responsible for developing the lymphatic system. These changes can cause dysfunction that is apparent at birth, early in life or even later in life. […] Secondary lymphedema (more common) is usually caused when the lymphatic system is damaged due to cancer surgery, radiation therapy, infection, trauma or other causes. […] The most common type of secondary lymphedema in the United States is related to surgery in cancer patients, often when combined with radiation. […] Secondary lymphedema can also be due to other conditions including lipedema, obesity and venous conditions. In these instances, the swelling is categorized as lipo-lymphedema, obesity-induced lymphedema, and phlebolymphedema, respectively.
  • #68 A review on lymphoedema – causes, confusions and complications – IJCED
    https://www.ijced.org/html-article/12749
    Accumulation of lymph in primary lymphoedema can be both unilateral and bilateral. Whereas secondary lymphoedema mostly localized restricted to the affected limb. Inadequate drainage of lymph or retention of fluid, transient edema of limbs follows the direct causes include lymphatic aplasia, hypoplasia, valvular insufficiency, obliteration / disruption of lymphatic vessels. […] Primary impairment of contractility of lymphatics also a primary cause of this condition. […] Gradual retention of lymph further leads to lymphatic hypertension and reduced contractility. […] Accumulation of lymph, interstitial fluid, proteins, glycosaminoglycans take place within skin and subcutaneous tissue. […] Reduced oxygen tension also can leads to chronic inflammation and reactive tissue fibrosis. […] Inherent malfunction of lymph carrying channels seen in primary lymphoedema. Whereas, secondary lymphoedema follows post traumatic dysfunction of lymphatic network following the sequelae secondary to post palliative surgery and radio therapy of malignancies of skin, breast, endometrium, and internal organs.
  • #69 Lymphoedema: Causes, treatment, quality of life | medi
    https://www.medi.de/en/diagnosis-treatment/lymphoedema/lymphoedema-disease/
    Lymphoedema may be congenital (primary lymphoedema) or may only form in the course of life (secondary lymphoedema). […] This type of lymphoedema is congenital. In most cases, lymph channels or lymph nodes were not properly formed or were malformed. […] This form of lymphoedema refers to oedema that only occurs in the course of life and is not congenital. Secondary lymphoedema results from external influences: […] In Germany, secondary lymphoedema often occurs as a result of cancer. The lymphatic vessel system can be damaged by the cancer. […] Lipo-lymphoedema is a consequence of lipoedema. This is a chronic fat distribution disorder of the subcutaneous fatty tissue on the legs and arms. If the subcutaneous fatty tissue exerts considerable pressure on the lymphatic channels, secondary lymphoedema may occur. […] Chronic venous diseases can also be the cause of secondary lymphoedema. This is known as phlebo-lymphoedema. With chronic venous insufficiency, there is increased fluid leakage into the tissue.
  • #70 A review on lymphoedema – causes, confusions and complications – IJCED
    https://www.ijced.org/html-article/12749
    Recurrent infections, injuries, drugs, metastatic and recurrences of malignancies also cause secondary lymphoedema. […] Secondary lymphoedema is more frequent than primary lymphoedema. It occurs due to damage or obstruction of previously normal lymphatics by disease processes. […] Other rare causes of lymphoedema include rosacea and herpes virus infections. […] Phlebo-lymphoedema refers to lymphoedema caused by chronic venous disease. […] Morbid obesity is also a high risk comorbid condition in developing lymphoedema. […] Obesity is a major contributor of the development of secondary lymphoedema. […] Chronic lymphoedema associated with papillomatous verrucous lesions labelled as elephantiasis nostras verrucosa, very poor response to treatment. […] Each infectious episodes worsen lymphoedema.
  • #71 Center for Lymphatic Disease | UC Davis Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
    https://health.ucdavis.edu/plasticsurgery/procedures/lymphatic-symptoms.html
    Lymphedema is caused by damage to the lymphatic system. Reasons for this damage include: […] Primary lymphedema is caused by changes or mutations in genes that are responsible for developing the lymphatic system. These changes can cause dysfunction that is apparent at birth, early in life or even later in life. […] Secondary lymphedema (more common) is usually caused when the lymphatic system is damaged due to cancer surgery, radiation therapy, infection, trauma or other causes. […] The most common type of secondary lymphedema in the United States is related to surgery in cancer patients, often when combined with radiation. […] Secondary lymphedema can also be due to other conditions including lipedema, obesity and venous conditions. In these instances, the swelling is categorized as lipo-lymphedema, obesity-induced lymphedema, and phlebolymphedema, respectively.
  • #72 Genital Lymphedema: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15994-genital-lymphedema
    Genital lymphedema occurs due to blockage or damage to the lymphatic system. […] A blockage or breakdown of the lymphatic system in your genital area can lead to a buildup of lymph in the surrounding soft tissue. […] Causes may include treatment (surgery or radiation therapy) of cancerous (malignant) tumors in the genital region, including the prostate, bladder, testicles, penis, cervix, ovaries, vulva or rectum. […] Surgical removal of the lymph nodes (lymphadenectomy) […] Long-term infections of the lymph nodes and lymph vessels from bacteria, viruses, fungi or threadlike worms (filariasis) […] Injuries […] Rarely, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) […] Less common causes of secondary genital lymphedema may include irritation, swelling and inflammation of the intestines (Crohns disease) […] Lesions on the lymph nodes (sarcoidosis) […] Inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis) […] Long-lasting (chronic) skin inflammation (rosacea) […] Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the abdomen (mesenteric lymphadenitis).
  • #73 A review on lymphoedema – causes, confusions and complications – IJCED
    https://www.ijced.org/html-article/12749
    Recurrent infections, injuries, drugs, metastatic and recurrences of malignancies also cause secondary lymphoedema. […] Secondary lymphoedema is more frequent than primary lymphoedema. It occurs due to damage or obstruction of previously normal lymphatics by disease processes. […] Other rare causes of lymphoedema include rosacea and herpes virus infections. […] Phlebo-lymphoedema refers to lymphoedema caused by chronic venous disease. […] Morbid obesity is also a high risk comorbid condition in developing lymphoedema. […] Obesity is a major contributor of the development of secondary lymphoedema. […] Chronic lymphoedema associated with papillomatous verrucous lesions labelled as elephantiasis nostras verrucosa, very poor response to treatment. […] Each infectious episodes worsen lymphoedema.
  • #74 Lymphedema – Cardiovascular Disorders – Merck Manual Professional Edition
    https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/cardiovascular-disorders/lymphatic-disorders/lymphedema
    Lymphedema may be […] Primary: Due to lymphatic hypoplasia […] Secondary: Due to obstruction or disruption of lymphatic vessels. […] Secondary lymphedema accounts for 95% of cases. […] Most common causes are Surgery (especially lymph node dissection, typically for treatment of breast cancer), Radiation therapy (especially axillary or inguinal), Trauma, Lymphatic obstruction by a tumor, Lymphatic filariasis (present in some tropical and subtropical areas). […] Mild lymphedema may also result from leakage of lymph into interstitial tissues in patients with chronic venous insufficiency. […] Cure is unusual once lymphedema occurs. […] Secondary lymphedema (due to obstruction or disruption of lymphatic vessels) is far more common than primary lymphedema (which is due to lymphatic hypoplasia). […] Elephantiasis (extreme hyperkeratosis of skin in a limb affected by lymphedema) is a severe manifestation of lymphedema usually due to lymphatic filariasis.
  • #75 Lymphedema – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lymphedema/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20374687
    If the cause of your lymphedema isn’t as obvious, your doctor may order imaging tests to get a look at your lymph system. […] Lymphedema greatly increases the risk of skin infections (cellulitis). […] Knowing what lymphedema is and what causes it can help communication with the doctor or physical therapist. […] What’s the likeliest cause of this swelling? […] Could there be another cause?
  • #76 A review on lymphoedema – causes, confusions and complications – IJCED
    https://www.ijced.org/html-article/12749
    Recurrent infections, injuries, drugs, metastatic and recurrences of malignancies also cause secondary lymphoedema. […] Secondary lymphoedema is more frequent than primary lymphoedema. It occurs due to damage or obstruction of previously normal lymphatics by disease processes. […] Other rare causes of lymphoedema include rosacea and herpes virus infections. […] Phlebo-lymphoedema refers to lymphoedema caused by chronic venous disease. […] Morbid obesity is also a high risk comorbid condition in developing lymphoedema. […] Obesity is a major contributor of the development of secondary lymphoedema. […] Chronic lymphoedema associated with papillomatous verrucous lesions labelled as elephantiasis nostras verrucosa, very poor response to treatment. […] Each infectious episodes worsen lymphoedema.
  • #77 A review on lymphoedema – causes, confusions and complications – IJCED
    https://www.ijced.org/html-article/12749
    There is 10% risk of developing angiosarcoma in patients with chronic lymphoedema lasting 10 years. […] Other malignancies like Kaposi sarcoma, melanoma, lymphoma, Basal cell Carcinoma (BCC) or squamous cell carcinoma can occur because of impairment of local immune surveillance due to poor immunity.
  • #78 Lymphedema: Pathophysiology and clinical manifestations – PubMed
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29132848/
    Lymphedema is a localized form of tissue swelling resulting from excessive retention of lymphatic fluid in the interstitial compartment and caused by impaired lymphatic drainage. Lymphedema is classified as primary or secondary. Primary lymphedema is caused by developmental lymphatic vascular anomalies. Secondary lymphedema is acquired and arises as a result of an underlying systemic disease, trauma, or surgery. […] This progressive chronic disease has serious implications on patients’ quality of life. […] There is no definitive cure for lymphedema. However, with proper diagnosis and management, its progression and potential complications may be limited.
  • #79 Lymphedema Treatment, Causes, Symptoms, Therapy, Stages
    https://www.medicinenet.com/lymphedema/article.htm
    Damage to lymph nodes and lymph vessels, leading to lymphedema, can also occur due to trauma, burns, radiation, infections, or compression or invasion of lymph nodes by tumors. […] Worldwide, however, filariasis is the most common cause of lymphedema. Filariasis is the direct infestation of lymph nodes by the parasite Wuchereria bancrofti. […] Primary lymphedema cannot be prevented, but measures can be taken to reduce the risk of developing lymphedema if one is at risk for secondary lymphedema, such as after cancer surgery or radiation treatment. […] Lymphedema cannot be cured, but compression treatments and preventive measures for those at risk for secondary lymphedema can help minimize swelling and associated symptoms.