What is lymphedema?

One of the first symptoms of lymphedema may be a feeling of tightness in the arm or hand on the same side that was treated for breast cancer. Any swelling, tightness, or injury to the arm or hand should be reported promptly to your doctor or nurse.

To learn more, see the American Cancer Society document, Lymphedema: What Every Woman with Breast Cancer Should Know. It is available at www.cancer.org or by calling 1-800-227-2345.

Lymphedema is a collection of fluid that causes swelling (edema) in the arms or legs. This type of edema occurs when the amount of lymph fluid in a person's arm or leg exceeds the body's ability to remove it, and the fluid then collects in the tissues of the limb.

One of the causes of lymphedema is surgery to remove lymph nodes, usually during cancer treatment. Lymphedema causes the blood vessels and lymph channels in the limb to increase in size and number. It also reduces oxygen delivery to the tissues, interferes with wound healing, and can lead to infection. Lymphedema is often a permanent condition and may not completely go away, even with treatment. The amount of swelling may fluctuate at different times.

Lymphedema is often managed with physical therapy and compression sleeves or stockings.

Lymphedema is a condition in which swelling develops, usually in an arm or a leg, due to a compromised or impaired lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a part of the immune system that fights infection and is also responsible for cleansing the tissues and maintaining balance of fluids in the body.

There are two types of lymphedema. Primary lymphedema is in inherited problem that causes improper development of the lymphatic system. Secondary lymphedema is caused by the removal or enlargement of the lymph nodes due to illness, surgery, or injury.

The main symptom is persistent swelling, usually of an arm or leg. Symptoms may occur very slowly over time or more quickly in the case of infection or injury. Imaging tests may be used to diagnose lymphedema.

Most of the underlying causes of lymphedema are irreversible. There is no cure for lymphedema. However, treatments are available to reduce the swelling and keep it to a minimum. Treatment focuses on minimizing the swelling, controlling pain, and preventing complications. Treatment includes physical methods, such as compression stockings, and medicines. In cases of severe lymphedema, surgery may be performed to remove excess tissue from the affected area. Medications are generally not used. Lymphedema may improve with time, although some swelling usually persists throughout an affected person's lifetime.

Primary lymphedema is inherited and cannot be prevented. Patients at risk of developing secondary lymphedema can take measures to help prevent it. Patients having tumors removed and/or radiation therapy should find out if the procedure will involve the lymph nodes or lymph vessels. The chance of improving the condition is better if treatment begins early. Untreated lymphedema can lead to problems that cannot be reversed. Complications of lymphedema include skin infections, elephantiasis (extreme swelling), and cancer of the lymph vessels. Many of the complications may be prevented by vigilant skin care and hygiene.

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