Persistent swelling caused by impaired drainage of lymphatic fluid from tissues.
Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system cannot adequately transport lymph away from a body region, causing protein-rich fluid to accumulate in the tissues. It most commonly affects an arm or leg but can occur in other parts of the body.
It may result from abnormalities of the lymphatic system present from birth or develop after conditions or treatments that damage or obstruct lymphatic vessels or lymph nodes, such as certain cancers, surgery, radiation therapy, or infections.
QUICK FACT
Lymphedema is not simply excess water in a limb. The accumulated fluid contains proteins and other substances, and prolonged lymphedema can cause changes in the tissues themselves.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Edema: a general term for abnormal accumulation of fluid in tissues; lymphedema is a specific type of edema caused by impaired lymphatic drainage.
- Lipedema: a different chronic disorder involving abnormal distribution of fatty tissue, usually affecting the limbs.
SEE ALSO