Lymphedema Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is lymphedema
Abnormal accumulation of protein rich fluid in the interstitium which usually causes chronic inflammation and reactive fibrosis of the affected tissue
What is edema
Symptom
Fluid accumulation in extra cellular space
What are the usual signs and symptoms of lymphedema
Usually one sided
Progressive
Pitting edema
OFTEN STARTS DISTALLY
Discomfort is common
Heaviness/achiness
What is stage 0 of lymphedema
No visible swelling
Patient may compliant of heaviness or aching
Often comes with shoulder pain in the arm
What is stage 1 of lymphedema
Reversible
What is stage 2 of lymphedema
Spontaneously irreversible
- elevation has little to no effect on
What is stage 3 of lymphedema
Lymphostatic elephantiasis
Hardening of dermal tissues
HUGE
What is sporadic primary lymphedema
More common than hereditary
Female > males
Distal LE
Congenital presents soon after birth
What is secondary lymphedema
Filariasis
Caused by cancer and cancer treatment
Surgery - most common is for cancer
Radiation
Trauma
Infection
What is lipidema
Painful fat syndrome
Large hips and legs
Does not involve feet
PAINFUL TO TOUCH
NO SWELLING IN THE FOOT!!!
How to tell if its lipidema
Hurts to touch
Bruises easily
Not prone to infection - its fat
Negative stemmer signs
Weight gain is symmetric
What is stage 2 of lipidema
Uneven skin - cellulite appearance
What is stage 3 of lipidema
Lobules develop near THIGH and MEDIAL knee
What is stage 4 of lipidema
Lipidema will occur with lymphedema
What is the treatment for lipidema
Wrapping
Lymphatic massage
Pressure garments
Anti-inflammatory diet
