Current Research on Lymphedema
Risk Factors and Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Patients With Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema
MSK research found that Black and Hispanic women are at significantly more risk to develop lymphedema after lymph node removal surgery for breast cancer than Asian or white women.
Nanotechnology Approach Shows Promise for Treating Lymphedema
Lymphedema is caused by a reduction in lymphatic transport resulting from increased demand for lymphatic flow or decreased capacity of the lymphatic circulation. Lymph nodes act like a drain in your sink. If the drain is clogged, the fluid cannot drain. It usually happens in the arms or legs but can occur in other parts of the body. Lymph fluid is part of the lymph system that carries fluid and cells that help fight infections throughout the body. Sometimes this swelling develops quickly, or it may develop slowly over several months. There are several anatomic deficiencies that lead to lymphedema, including lymphatic hypoplasia and functional insufficiency of lymphatic valves.
Scientists better understand how people with Cantu syndrome develop lymphedema
The simplest classification of lymphedema relies upon differentiation between primary and secondary causes. Primary lymphedema is often classified according to the age at which the edema first appeared. Congenital lymphedema is apparent at birth or becomes recognized within the first 2 years of life. Lymphedema praecox is most commonly detected at the time of puberty but may appear as late as the third decade of life. Lymphedema tarda typically appears after age 35 years.
Primary Lymphedema in a Pediatric Patient
Lymphedema can be caused by cancer or by cancer treatment.
Sometimes a cancerous tumor can get big enough to block the lymph system.
Surgery to remove acancer may also remove lymph nodes or some of the vessels that carry the lymph fluid. This can cause the fluid to build up in surrounding tissues.
Radiation treatment can damage the lymph vessels, resulting in too much lymph fluid in the tissues.