What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is an accumulation of Iymphatic fluid that causes swelling in the arms and legs. Edema occurs when venous or Iymphatic vessels or both are impaired. When the impairment is so great that the Iymph fluid exceeds the Iymphatic transport capacity, an abnormal amount of protein fluid collects in the tissues of the extremity. Untreated, this stagnant, protein-rich fluid not only causes tissue channels to increase in size and number, but also reduces oxygen through the transport system, interferes with wound healing and provides a culture medium for bacteria that can result in various infections. A chronic inflammatory condition stemming from this accumulation of fluid eventually results in fibrotic tissues.