Lymphedema is the swelling that some people get in their arms or legs. The most common cause in the United States is cancer treatment. This is called Secondary Lymphedema, and it occurs when the lymph nodes or vessels are cut or damaged by surgery, radiation or other trauma. Surgical removal of the nodes, or radiation over the nodes is commonly used to treat such cancers as breast, uterine, ovarian, bladder, prostate or testicular cancers for melanomas and lymphomas.
Some people develop lymphedema for no known reason. This is called Primary Lymphedema, and can occur at any age. It is most common before age 35, and more common in females than males.
The lymphatic and blood systems work together to circulate fluids and nutrients, and to remove wastes from the body. The lymph system specifically removes waste, proteins, fluids, and cell debris. It also identifies foreign bodies such as bacteria, viruses and fungal infections, and begins the immune reaction. The lymph system pulls fluid from the tissues, filters it in the lymph nodes, then passes the excess fluid to the blood system.
When parts of the lymph system are cut or damaged, some of the waste protein, fluids and cell debris remain in the tissues. As the waste builds up the tissues may thicken (fibrosis), causing further damage and further build up of waste. Over time the swelling increases, causing more fibrosis and damage to the remaining lymphatics. Untreated lymphedema may result in infections, limitations in movement and function, and therefore lead to further medical expenses.
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