What Is the Lymphatic System?
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
8. Diseases of the Lymphatic System - Lymphedema
Lymphedema occurs when there is swelling due to accumulation of lymphatic fluid due to malformations or damage to the lymphatic system. Although it usually affects the limbs, the face, abdomen, and neck can also be affected. In extreme cases, this condition is commonly known as elephantiasis where the edema progresses to the severity where the skin thickens causing the appearance to be similar to skin seen on elephant limbs.
Although the causes are generally unknown, patients with this issue tend to have a previous history of severe infection usually by parasites as seen in lymphatic filariasis. Lymphedema can also occur after surgery has been performed to remove lymph nodes due to poor lymphatic drainage.
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