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Lymphedema
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is a condition characterized by swelling in one or more extremities that results from impaired flow of the lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system is a network of specialized vessels (lymph vessels) throughout the body whose purpose is to collect excess lymph fluid with proteins, lipids, and waste products from the tissues. This fluid is then carried to the lymph nodes, which filter waste products and contain infection-fighting cells called lymphocytes. The excess fluid in the lymph vessels is eventually returned to the bloodstream. When the lymph vessels are blocked or unable to carry lymph fluid away from the tissues, localized swelling (lymphedema) is the result.
Lymphedema most often affects a single arm or leg, but in uncommon situations both limbs are affected.
- Primary lymphedema is the result of a design flaw of the lymph vessels and is a rare, inherited condition.
- Secondary lymphedema results from an identifiable damage to or obstruction of normally-functioning lymph vessels and nodes.
- Worldwide, lymphedema is most commonly caused by filariasis (a parasitic infection), but in the U.S., lymphedema most commonly occurs in women who have had breast cancer surgery, particularly when followed by radiation treatment.
It has been estimated that worldwide, there are 140-250 million people affected by lymphedema.
What causes lymphedema?
Primary lymphedema causes
Primary lymphedema is an abnormality of an individual's lymphatic system and is likely present at birth, although symptoms may not become apparent until later in life. Depending upon the age at which symptoms develop, three forms of primary lymphedema have been described. Most primary lymphedema occurs without any known family history of the condition.
- Congenital lymphed is evident at birth, is more common in females, and accounts for 10%-25% of all cases of primary lymphedema. A subgroup of people with congenital lymphedema has a genetic inheritance (in medical genetics termed "familial sex-linked pattern"), which is termed Milroy disease.
- lymphedema praecox is the most common form of primary lymphedema, making up 65%-80% of cases. It is defined as lymphedema that becomes apparent after birth and before age 35 years and symptoms most often develop during puberty. Lymphedema praecox is four times more common in females as in males.
- Primary lymphedema that becomes evident after 35 years of age is known asMeige disease. It is less common than congenital lymphedema and lymphedema praecox and accounts for 10% of cases of primary lymphedema.
Secondary lymphedema causes
Secondary lymphedema develops when a normally-functioning lymphatic system is blocked or damaged. In the U.S., breast cancer surgery, particularly when combined withradiation treatment, is the most common cause. This results in one-sided (unilateral) lymphedema of the arm. Any type of surgical procedure that requires removal of regional lymph nodes or lymph vessels can potentially cause lymphedema. Surgical procedures that have been associated with lymphedema include vein stripping, lipectomy, burn scar excision, and peripheral vascular surgery.
Damage to lymph node and lymph vessels, leading to lymphedema, can also occur due to trauma, burns, radiation, infections, or compression or invasion of lymph nodes by tumors.
Worldwide, however, filariasis is the most common cause of lymphedema. Filariasis is the direct infestation of lymph nodes by the parasite Wuchereria bancrofti. The disease is spread among persons by mosquitoes, and affects millions of people in the tropics and sub-tropics of Asia, Africa, Western Pacific, and parts of Central and South America. Infestation by the parasite damages the lymph system, leading to swelling in the arms, breasts, legs, and, for men, the genital area. The entire leg, arm, or genital area may swell to several times its normal size. Also, the swelling and the decreased function of the lymph system make it difficult for the body to fight infections. Lymphatic filariasis is a leading cause of permanent disability in the world.
Las Vegas Internist Doctors for Lymphedema
Type of Physician: Internist
What is a Internist?
A certification by the Board of Internal Medicine; practitioners provide long-term, comprehensive care in the office and the hospital, managing both common illnesses and complex problems for adolescents, adults, and the elderly. General internists are trained in primary care internal medicine, which incorporates an understanding of disease prevention, wellness, substance abuse, mental health and treatment of problems of the eyes, ears, skin, nervous system and reproductive organs. All internists are trained in the subspecialty areas of internal medicine including emergency internal medicine and critical care. Internists consult with surgeons when surgical management is indicated, and often act as consultants to other specialists.
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Emergency Contact for Las Vegas
- In case of Emergency, call 911
- Police (Non-emergency) 702-895-3668
- Poison Information 702-732-4989
- Suicide Prevention Center of Clark Country 702-731-2990

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The Lebed Method, Focus on Healing Through Therapeutic Exercise and Movement
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The Lebed Method, Focus on Healing through Therapeutic Exercise and movement is for everyone who has or who has had Breast Cancer all Cancers, Lymphedema, M.S. Parkinson's, Fibromyalgia and all Chronic Illnesses. We welcome you to our medically based program that is in more than 14 countries and has served thousands of people in those countries and is in more than 500 hospitals and centers world w...
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Lymphedema: New and Emerging Treatments
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Lymphedema is the swelling that occurs when a blockage in the lymphatic system prevents the lymph fluid in the arm or leg from draining adequately. As the fluid accumulates, the swelling continues. It frequently follows surgery for cancer and is an ongoing challenge for the patient. This talk, by the Director of the Lymphedema Clinic will focus on the new and emerging treatments for this condition...
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2000 Arm Lymphedema Sleeve By Juzo, Size III Compression 30-40, Chestnut - Regular length
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This sleeve includes the silicone border. Ideal for those who maintain an active lifestyle....
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Bellisse Compression Bra for Lymphedema
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