Lymphedema

Summary

Lymphedema is the name of a type of swelling. It happens when lymph builds up in your body’s soft tissues. Lymph is a fluid that contains white blood cells that defend against germs. It can build up when the lymph system is damaged or blocked. It usually happens in the arms or legs.

Causes of lymphedema include:

• Infection
• Cancer
• Scar tissue from radiation therapy or surgical removal of lymph nodes
• Inherited conditions in which lymph nodes or vessels are absent or abnormal

Treatment can help control symptoms. It includes exercise, compression devices, skin care, and massage.

NIH: National Cancer Institute

National Cancer Institute

Clinical Trials

• ClinicalTrials.gov: Lymphedema National Institutes of Health

Patient Handouts

• Compression stockings Medical Encyclopedia
• Lymphatic obstruction Medical Encyclopedia
• Lymphedema – self-care Medical Encyclopedia

Living With

• For People with Lymphedema American Cancer Society

Start Here

• Guide to Understanding Lymphedema Living Beyond Breast Cancer
• Lymphedema National Cancer Institute
• Lymphedema Lymphatic Education & Research Network
• Lymphedema Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Genetics

• Hennekam syndrome: MedlinePlus Genetics National Library of Medicine
• Lymphedema-distichiasis syndrome: MedlinePlus Genetics National Library of Medicine
• Meige disease: MedlinePlus Genetics National Library of Medicine

NIH MedlinePlus Magazine

• Kathy Bates is Figuring Out How to Live with Lymphedema
• Lymphedema: Living with Swelling and Stiffness

Find an Expert

• Lymphatic Education & Research Network Lymphatic Education & Research Network
• National Cancer Institute National Cancer Institute
• National Lymphedema Network National Lymphedema Network

Related Issues

• Lymphatic Filariasis Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Women

• Lymphedema American Cancer Society

Specifics

• Lymphedema as a Cancer Treatment Side Effect American Society of Clinical Oncology

Diagnosis and Tests

• Lymphoscintigraphy Radiological Society of North America

Journal Articles

• Lymphedema

Treatments and Therapies

• Treatment of Lymphedema National Cancer Institute