How is lymphedema diagnosed. What are the treatment options for lymphedema. Can lymphedema be prevented. What are the early signs of lymphedema. How does lymphedema affect quality of life.

Understanding Lymphedema: Causes and Symptoms

Lymphedema is a condition characterized by an abnormal buildup of protein-rich fluid in various parts of the body. This accumulation occurs due to a malfunction in the lymphatic system, which is responsible for transporting fluid throughout the body. Lymphedema can be classified into two main types:

• Primary lymphedema: A congenital condition present at birth
• Secondary lymphedema: Develops as a result of damage to the lymphatic system, often following surgery or infection

The symptoms of lymphedema can vary depending on the affected area and the severity of the condition. Common signs include:

• Swelling in the arms, legs, or other body parts
• A feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected limb
• Restricted range of motion
• Recurring infections in the affected area
• Hardening and thickening of the skin (fibrosis)

Early detection and treatment of lymphedema are crucial for preventing its progression and managing symptoms effectively.

Diagnostic Approaches for Lymphedema

Diagnosing lymphedema typically involves a combination of clinical assessment and specialized tests. Healthcare providers employ various methods to accurately identify and evaluate the condition:

Clinical Evaluation

The initial step in diagnosing lymphedema often involves a thorough clinical evaluation. This includes:

• Reviewing the patient’s medical history
• Discussing symptoms and their onset
• Conducting a physical examination of the affected limb

During the physical exam, the healthcare provider will assess the extent of swelling and look for characteristic signs of lymphedema.

Limb Measurements

Accurate measurements of the affected limb are essential for diagnosing and monitoring lymphedema. Several techniques are used to calculate limb volume:

• Tape measure method: The circumference of the limb is measured at specific intervals to estimate its volume
• Water displacement: The affected limb is submerged in a tank of water, and the volume of displaced water is measured
• Perometry: Infrared light is used to create a detailed outline of the limb, allowing for precise volume calculations

These measurements help healthcare providers track changes in limb size over time and assess the effectiveness of treatment.

Bioimpedance Testing

Bioimpedance testing is a non-invasive method used to detect the presence of fluid in body tissues. The procedure involves:

1. Placing small metallic electrodes on different parts of the body
2. Applying a painless electric charge
3. Measuring changes in the current’s strength using a handheld device

This test can help identify early-stage lymphedema before visible swelling occurs.

Imaging Studies

In some cases, imaging tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other causes of swelling. Common imaging techniques include:

• Lymphoscintigraphy: A radioactive dye is injected and tracked to visualize the lymphatic system
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of soft tissues and can reveal lymphatic abnormalities
• Ultrasound: Uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the affected area
• CT (Computed Tomography) scan: Offers detailed cross-sectional images of lymph nodes and surrounding tissues

These imaging studies help create a comprehensive picture of the affected tissues and guide treatment decisions.

Treatment Options for Lymphedema

Managing lymphedema requires a multifaceted approach tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Treatment options range from conservative measures to surgical interventions:

Conservative Management

For early-stage lymphedema, non-surgical interventions are often the first line of treatment:

• Compression therapy: Using specially designed garments or bandages to apply pressure and promote fluid drainage
• Manual lymphatic drainage: A specialized massage technique to stimulate lymph flow
• Exercise: Tailored physical activities to improve circulation and lymphatic function
• Skin care: Proper hygiene and moisturizing to prevent infections
• Elevation: Keeping the affected limb elevated to facilitate fluid drainage

Medication

In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage lymphedema symptoms:

• Diuretics: To help reduce fluid retention, though their long-term use is generally not recommended
• Antibiotics: To treat or prevent infections associated with lymphedema
• Anti-inflammatory drugs: To reduce swelling and discomfort

Surgical Interventions

For advanced-stage lymphedema or cases that do not respond well to conservative treatments, surgical options may be considered:

• Lymph node transfer: Healthy lymph nodes are transplanted to the affected area
• Lymphovenous anastomosis: Connecting lymphatic vessels to nearby veins to improve drainage
• Debulking procedures: Removing excess tissue in severe cases
• Suction-assisted lipectomy: Removing fat deposits associated with chronic lymphedema

These surgical techniques aim to improve lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling, but they are typically reserved for more severe cases.

Preventing Lymphedema: Risk Reduction Strategies

While not all cases of lymphedema can be prevented, there are several strategies to reduce the risk of developing the condition, especially for those who have undergone lymph node removal or radiation therapy:

Skin Care and Hygiene

Maintaining proper skin care is crucial in preventing infections that can trigger or exacerbate lymphedema:

• Clean the skin of the affected area daily using mild soap and warm water
• Apply moisturizer to keep the skin supple and prevent cracks
• Be gentle when drying the skin to avoid irritation
• Take care of fingernails and avoid cutting cuticles
• Clean any cuts or scratches immediately and apply antibacterial ointment

Physical Activity and Exercise

Engaging in appropriate physical activities can help improve lymphatic drainage and overall health:

• Consult with a healthcare provider or physical therapist before starting an exercise routine
• Perform gentle exercises that promote circulation and lymph flow
• Avoid activities that put excessive strain on the affected limb
• Gradually increase exercise intensity and duration

Lifestyle Modifications

Making certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing lymphedema:

• Maintain a healthy body weight through proper nutrition and exercise
• Avoid tight clothing or jewelry that could restrict lymph flow
• Use an electric shaver instead of razors to prevent cuts when shaving
• Protect the affected limb from extreme temperatures and sun exposure
• Avoid blood pressure measurements or injections in the at-risk limb when possible

Travel Precautions

Taking precautions while traveling can help prevent lymphedema flare-ups:

• Wear compression garments during long flights or car rides
• Stay hydrated and move around periodically during travel
• Avoid carrying heavy luggage with the affected arm
• Be cautious of insect bites and use appropriate repellents

Living with Lymphedema: Coping Strategies and Support

Managing lymphedema can be challenging, but there are various ways to cope with the condition and maintain a good quality of life:

Emotional Well-being

Dealing with lymphedema can take an emotional toll. Consider the following strategies:

• Join a support group to connect with others facing similar challenges
• Seek counseling or therapy if you’re struggling with body image or emotional distress
• Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises
• Engage in hobbies and activities that bring joy and relaxation

Adaptive Clothing and Accessories

Finding comfortable and functional clothing can make living with lymphedema easier:

• Look for loose-fitting garments that don’t restrict movement or circulation
• Choose clothing with adjustable features to accommodate fluctuations in swelling
• Explore specialized lymphedema garments designed for both function and style
• Use accessories like handbags with longer straps to avoid putting pressure on affected areas

Workplace Accommodations

If lymphedema affects your ability to work, consider discussing accommodations with your employer:

• Request ergonomic adjustments to your workstation
• Explore options for flexible scheduling or remote work if needed
• Discuss the possibility of modifying job duties to reduce strain on affected limbs
• Educate coworkers about lymphedema to foster understanding and support

Advances in Lymphedema Research and Treatment

The field of lymphedema research is continually evolving, with new discoveries and treatment approaches emerging:

Genetic Studies

Researchers are investigating the genetic factors that contribute to lymphedema, which may lead to:

• Better understanding of the underlying causes of primary lymphedema
• Identification of individuals at higher risk for developing secondary lymphedema
• Development of targeted therapies based on genetic profiles

Pharmacological Interventions

New medications are being studied to address various aspects of lymphedema:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and fibrosis
• Medications that promote lymphangiogenesis (formation of new lymphatic vessels)
• Targeted therapies to address specific molecular pathways involved in lymphedema

Advanced Imaging Techniques

Improvements in imaging technology are enhancing the diagnosis and monitoring of lymphedema:

• Near-infrared fluorescence imaging for real-time visualization of lymphatic function
• Advanced MRI techniques to assess lymphatic vessel architecture and function
• 3D imaging and modeling to guide surgical planning and treatment

Regenerative Medicine Approaches

Emerging regenerative therapies hold promise for lymphedema treatment:

• Stem cell therapies to promote lymphatic vessel regeneration
• Tissue engineering techniques to create functional lymphatic structures
• Growth factor therapies to stimulate lymphangiogenesis

As research progresses, these advancements may lead to more effective and personalized treatment options for individuals living with lymphedema.

The Role of Nutrition in Lymphedema Management

While there is no specific diet that can cure lymphedema, proper nutrition plays a crucial role in managing the condition and supporting overall health:

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Excess body weight can exacerbate lymphedema symptoms. A balanced diet can help:

• Reduce the load on the lymphatic system
• Improve mobility and make exercise easier
• Decrease inflammation throughout the body

Sodium Intake

Controlling sodium consumption is important for lymphedema management:

• Excessive sodium can lead to fluid retention, worsening swelling
• Aim for a low-sodium diet, with less than 2,300 mg of sodium per day
• Read food labels carefully and choose fresh, whole foods over processed options

Hydration

Proper hydration is essential for lymphatic function:

• Drink adequate water throughout the day
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can contribute to dehydration
• Include hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables in your diet

Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods may help reduce swelling and discomfort:

• Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts
• Colorful fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants
• Turmeric and ginger, known for their anti-inflammatory properties

While nutrition alone cannot treat lymphedema, a well-balanced diet can support overall health and complement other treatment strategies.

Lymphoedema – Diagnosis – NHS

See a GP if you have symptoms of lymphoedema. If you’re being treated for cancer and are at risk of developing lymphoedema, you’ll be monitored for the condition afterwards.

In many cases, it’s possible to diagnose lymphoedema by:

• asking about your symptoms and medical history
• examining the affected limb and measuring the distance around it to see if it’s enlarged

The GP may refer you to a specialist lymphoedema treatment centre for further assessment.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the condition from getting worse.

In most cases, further tests are not necessary, but they may occasionally be used to assess and monitor your condition.

Measuring limb volume

In some cases, tests to calculate the volume of an affected limb may be carried out.

These may include:

• using a tape measure – to measure the circumference of the limb at certain intervals to calculate its volume
• water displacement – where the affected limb is placed in a tank of water and the amount of water that’s displaced is measured to calculate the volume of the limb
• perometry – where infrared light is used to measure the outline of an affected limb and calculate its volume

Bioimpedance testing

During a bioimpedance test, small metallic discs called electrodes are placed on different parts of your body.

The electrodes release a small, painless electric charge that’s measured using a handheld device. Changes in the strength of the current can indicate the presence of fluid in your tissue.

Imaging tests

Imaging tests may also be used if there’s uncertainty around the diagnosis or to rule out other causes of swelling.

These include:

• a lymphoscintigram – where you’re injected with a radioactive dye that can be tracked by a scanner; this shows how the dye moves through your lymphatic system and can check for any blockages
• a MRI scan – a strong magnetic field and radio waves are used to produce detailed images of the inside of your body
• an ultrasound scan – high-frequency sound waves are used to create an image of the inside of your body
• a CT scan – X-rays and a computer create detailed images of the lymph nodes

These scans can be used to create a clearer picture of the affected tissue.

Page last reviewed: 29 March 2023
Next review due: 29 March 2026

Treating Lymphedema | Johns Hopkins Medicine

What You Need to Know

• The lymphatic system is made up of many vessels that carry fluid
  throughout the body.
• Lymphedema is an abnormal buildup of protein-rich fluid in any part of
  the body as a result of malfunction in the lymphatic system. You can be born with it (primary lymphedema) or develop it as a result of damage to the lymphatic system, such as after surgery or infection (secondary lymphedema).
• Early-stage lymphedema can be treated with nonsurgical interventions,
  including medication, a healthy diet and manual compression.
• For advanced-stage lymphedema, surgical intervention may be
  recommended.

Lymphedema Prevention

People who have had surgery to remove lymph nodes in the armpit should be aware of those activities that put too much pressure on the affected arm. Protective measures to avoid injury and infection include:

Maintaining Proper Hygiene

• Clean the skin of the affected arm daily and apply lotion. When drying the arm, be gentle but thorough.

• Take proper care of the fingernails and avoid cutting cuticles.

• Clean all cuts with soap and water, and then apply antibacterial ointment and a sterile dressing.

Staying Fit

• Do exercises regularly to improve drainage, but first consult with your doctor or physical therapist.

• Eat a well-balanced, low-sodium diet.

• Keep the arm elevated when possible.

Taking Precaution with Everyday Activities

• Protect your fingers from needle pricks and sharp objects. Use a thimble when sewing.

• Avoid vigorous, repetitive movements against resistance, such as scrubbing, pulling or pushing, with the affected arm.

• Avoid sunburns and other burns to the affected arm.

• Use an electric shaver when shaving underarms.

Wearing the Right Attire

• Wear gloves when gardening and when using strong household detergents.

• Do not wear nightgowns or clothing with elastic cuffs.

• Carry your handbag or heavy packages in the unaffected arm.

Speaking Up at Your Doctor’s Office

• Make sure that all injections are given and blood tests are drawn in the unaffected arm.

• If at all possible, have all blood pressure tests done on the unaffected arm.

• Avoid extreme hot or cold temperatures on the affected arm, such as heating pads or ice packs.

• Notify your doctor immediately of any signs of infection, such as redness, pain, heat, increased swelling or fever.

Talk with your doctor about what you can do to try to prevent lymphedema from happening to you. If lymphedema does develop, let your doctor know right away. There are things you can do to try to keep it from getting worse.

Lymphedema Causes

Lymphedema occurs as a result of a blockage in the lymphatic system. This is most often caused by a traumatic event, such as sports injuries or deep cuts and bruises, as an aftereffect of surgery or cancer treatment. More rarely, lymphedema can occur as birth defect or symptom of infection.

Lymphedema Diagnosis

There are no specific diagnostic tests for lymphedema. The doctor will complete a medical history and physical examination. The medical history may include questions regarding the following:

• Past surgeries

• Problems following the surgeries

• Onset of symptoms (When did the swelling appear?)

• History of edema (severe swelling)

• Current medications

• Other medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes

Stages

Upon diagnosis, your doctor will identify which stage best characterizes your lymphedema and diagnose treatment accordingly. Depending on how the swelling has progressed, your doctor will identify the following stages:

• Stage 1: Abnormal flow in the lymphatic system. No signs or symptoms

• Stage 2: Accumulation of fluid with swelling. Swelling resolves with elevation. Pressing on the area may leave a dent

• Stage 3: Permanent swelling that does not resolve with elevation. Pressing on the area no longer leaves a dent. Changes in the skin with scarring and thickening

• Stage 4: Elephantiasis (large deformed limb), skin thickening with “wart-like” growth and extensive scarring

Lymphedema: What Are Your Surgical Options?

There are several treatment options available for lymphedema. Find out what stage you’re in to see medical and surgical options.

Read more

Lymphedema Treatment

Decongestive Therapy for Lymphedema

Treatment for lymphedema depends on the severity and extent of the condition. Prevention and controlling lymphedema play an important role with this condition since there is no cure.

Decongestive treatment is commonly recommended for the first two stages of lymphedema. Treatment options may include:

• Exercise. Exercise helps to restore flexibility and strength, and it improves drainage. Specific exercises will be recommended by your doctor and/or physical therapist.

• Bandage. Wearing a customized compression sleeve or elastic bandage may help to prevent an accumulation of fluid.

• Arm pump. Applying an arm pump often helps to increase the fluid flow in the lymphatic vessels and keeps fluid from collecting in the arm.

• Diet.  Eating a well-balanced diet and controlling body weight is an important part of treatment.

• Keep the arm raised. Keeping the arm raised above the level of the heart, whenever possible, allows gravity to help drain the accumulated fluid.

• Infection Prevention. It is important to follow preventive measures, such as good skin care, to protect the affected arm from infection and skin breakdown.

Surgical Treatment of Lymphedema

Once lymphedema has progressed to stages 3 or 4, surgical intervention may be recommended. Surgical options include both physiological and excisional procedures. Both procedures aim to restore lymphatic flow. However, physiological procedures involve rewiring the lymphatic system within the limb, while excisional procedures focus on removing diseased tissue.

Physiological Procedures (may be recommended for stages 3 and 4)

• Vascularized lymph node transfer.  The surgeon transfers healthy lymph nodes to the affected area and rewires the lymphatic system to reduce swelling.

• Lymphaticovenous anastomosis (also referred to as lymphovenous bypass). The surgeon rewires the lymphatic system by connecting lymphatic channels directly to tiny veins nearby. This is an outpatient procedure with very small and minimal incisions and very little blood loss.

Excisional Procedures (may be recommended for stages 3, 4 or 5)

• Liposuction. The affected tissue can be removed.

• Charles procedure. The surgeon will remove affected tissue and use a part of it as skin grafts to repair the area. This is a more invasive procedure, typically recommended for stages 4 and 5.

Lymphedema – diagnosis and treatment

Lymphedema of the extremities is a visible and palpable swelling of the legs resulting from stagnant lymph fluid. Lymph is a pale yellow or colorless fluid that contains blood plasma and lymphocytes (white blood cells).

There are many causes of the disease. Often, this is a blockade of the lymph nodes. The pressure in the vessels rises, and the lymph protrudes from the lymphatic channels, filling the tissues. The second reason is heredity. The patient may have too few lymphatic vessels or they may be different from the norm, so they cannot perform their function properly. At the same time, the risk of inheriting the disease is 50%.

The disease is rare. Women suffer from it 9 times more often than men. Usually, lymphedema manifests itself in the return of 15 to 20 years. And even less often the disease occurs in patients older than 35 years.

Diagnosis of Lymphedema of the Lower Extremities

Diagnosis for the presence of lymphedema of the legs begins with a physical examination of the patient. An anamnesis is collected, that is, the patient’s memories of his lifestyle, when he first noticed changes in the lower extremities, past diseases, operations, injuries, allergic reactions, chronic diseases and heredity. All this information helps the doctor determine the possible source of provoking the disease.

Lymphedema has primary and secondary forms. In primary, the patient’s toes will be square in shape. This bright distinguishing feature immediately excludes venous edema.

Imaging is not required to make a diagnosis. It is needed when determining the degree of tissue involvement in the pathological development of the disease. That is, to determine how much tissue has been damaged.

The main tests prescribed for lymphedema:

1. X-ray Needed to rule out bone anomalies.
2. Computed tomography. Usually prescribed for suspected malignancy.
3. Magnetic resonance imaging.
4. Indocyanine green lymphography.
5. Ultrasonography. Evaluation of the condition of the lymphatic and venous vessels for damage.
6. Lymphoscintigraphy. The condition of the lymphatic system is assessed.

Secondary lymphedema is characterized by an association with a previous disease, injury or operation. It is important to establish the cause and determine the extent of the disease in order to prescribe the correct treatment.

After getting acquainted with the clinical symptoms, the stage of the course of the disease is determined:

Stage 1 – edema is not visible from the outside, but the natural ability of the lymphatic system to circulate the lymph is already reduced;
stage 2 – swelling of the legs occurs in the evening;
stage 3 – onset of inflammation and irreversible symptoms;
Stage 4 Abnormal swelling of body parts.

At stages 1 and 2, the disease can be cured. Lymphedema is completely eliminated. In stages 3 and 4, the disease is irreversible.

Treatment of lymphedema

Lifestyle recommendations should be followed if diseased. For example, if you have stage 3 or 4 lymphedema, then you need to undergo therapy to reduce external pressure on the body. Do not wear tight, tight or tight clothing. You need to protect yourself as much as possible from possible injuries. At the first signs of inflammation, such as fever, chills, redness, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Treatment of primary lymphedema

In case of hereditary lymphedema, complex therapy is prescribed: lymphatic drainage, drugs (diuretics, benzopyrones), compresses, gymnastics, foot skin care to prevent ulcers or injuries, surgery.

Treatment of secondary lymphedema

If the patient has a secondary form of the disease, then the cause of the lymphedema should be treated. For example, when a malignant tumor is detected, treatment is aimed at eliminating the cause and alleviating the symptoms.

Timely treatment will help to avoid harmful consequences

It is necessary to predict the complications of the disease based on its causes and stage. Usually, with a hereditary predisposition to lymphedema, you can reduce the chances of its occurrence in simple ways. For example, avoid being overweight. Then the risk of inheriting the disease is reduced from 50% to 25%, which, you see, is a very significant result.

A timely visit to a doctor and timely treatment also reduces the chances of an unfavorable prognosis by almost 5 times. This is a powerful reason to protect yourself.

Phlebologists of the CDC Arbatsky help patients cope with the disease in the initial stages of the disease, almost until complete recovery. There is all the necessary modern equipment for diagnosing and effective therapy.

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Facial lymphedema

Head and neck lymphedema is a very common late treatment side effect for head and neck cancer. It is a chronic disease with potentially severe consequences for quality of life. Unfortunately, knowledge of the condition is poor and clinical studies are rare. Here we present an overview of the current clinical understanding of the condition and how it can be managed.

Would you like to know more about how your experience compares to other patients? Check: “Is my head and neck lymphedema “normal”?”

Contents [hide]
1 Part 1. Clinical features of head and neck lymphedema
1.1 what is lymphedema?
1.2 What is head and neck lymphedema and how does it happen?
1.3 What are the symptoms of head and neck lymphedema?
1.4 How is head and neck lymphedema diagnosed?
1.5 Risk factors for head and neck lymphedema after cancer treatment
1.6 Prevalence of head and neck lymphedema after cancer treatment
2 Part 2: Prevention and treatment of secondary head and neck lymphedema
2.1 Prevention and self-regulation of head and neck lymphedema after cancer treatment
2.2 Professional management of head and neck lymphedema after cancer treatment
2. 2.1 gold standard of care
2.2.2 Surgical options
2.2.3 Pharmaceuticals and supplements
3 comments or questions?
4 references
Part 1: clinical features of head and neck lymphedema
what is lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a chronic condition of swelling caused by damage to the lymphatic system (“secondary lymphedema”) or malformation of the lymphatic system (“primary lymphedema”). A disruption in the normal function of the lymphatic system in an area of ​​the body results in insufficient clearance of the lymphatic fluid (lymph) from that area. As the blood transports oxygen and nutrients to the cells of the body and collects waste products for excretion, 80% of the fluid returns to the bloodstream while 20% enters the lymphatic system as lymph, the colorless liquid that makes up the bulk. Eventually the lymph returns to the bloodstream in the heart.

More than just a fluid collection system, the lymphatic system is an essential component of the immune system, transporting immune cells around the body. Consequently, the blockage of lymphatic flow causes fluid buildup as well as other deleterious changes, including localized immune depression. Lymphedema is usually seen in the extremities (arms and legs) but is also very common in people treated for head and neck cancer. Learn more about lymphedema here.

what is head and neck lymphedema and how is it caused?

Secondary lymphedema of the head and neck usually results from damage to the local lymphatic system during cancer biopsy or treatment (see Figure 1 for an illustration of some of the lymph nodes and vessels of the head and neck). Removal of lymph nodes during cancer biopsy or tumor resection is the main cause of secondary lymphedema in patients with head and neck cancer. This is a direct consequence of the essential role of the lymph nodes in collecting lymphatic fluid from small lymphatic vessels and draining it into larger vessels leading to the heart.

Radiation therapy can also cause damage to any remaining lymph nodes and lymph vessels located in the radiation field, another potential cause of lymphedema. Unfortunately, the large number of nodes in the head and neck area makes radiation-induced damage more difficult to avoid. Stimulation of the normal lymphatic flow in the head and neck leads to a buildup of lymphatic fluid and then a chronic and progressive swelling that can affect various areas of the head, neck and face.

Lymph glands and vessels-of-the-head-and-neck Figure 1. Superficial lymph glands (nodes) and lymphatic vessels of the head and neck (Ref. 1).
As with arm or leg, head and neck lymphedema, lymphedema should be caught and treated early to relieve symptoms and prevent or delay the progression of the disease.

Uncontrolled edema causes additional damage by overstressing the remaining normal lymphatic vessels, and may also initiate a cascade of deleterious events, including localized inflammation, immune system impairment, and eventually hardening of the edema (which is termed “non-punctate lymphedema”) , further exacerbating the problem.

Hardening is the result of compositional changes occurring in tissue, including fibrosis (scarring), connective tissue proliferation, and fat (and to a lesser extent muscle and bone) accumulation, possibly the result of altered stem cell behavior. This advanced stage of the disease is less responsive to typical treatments and may require surgery (see below).

what are the symptoms of head and neck lymphedema?

The main symptom of head and neck lymphedema is swelling, usually developing 2-6 months after cancer treatment. In the early stages of swelling, head and neck lymphedema can be difficult to observe. Head and neck lymphedema can develop internally in the larynx and pharynx (which are the various structures that make up the mouth and throat), or externally in the neck and face, or a combination of both, depending on which lymphatic channels are obstructed.

More rarely, the tumor may progress to the point where it creates serious functional problems such as difficulty breathing and swallowing, as well as obvious problems with body image and associated social output arising from deformity of the neck and face (art. 2). Overall, head and neck lymphedema has the potential to seriously impair the quality of life of patients. To see how your symptoms compare to a group of 1,202 head and neck cancer patients at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC) in Texas, check out our post: “Is my head and neck lymphedema ‘normal’?“.

Symptoms of mild to moderate lymphedema of the head and neck may include:

Visible swelling under the chin, in the neck, or in the face, including the eyes and lips.
Feeling of tightness or limited movement in these areas, including the jaw or shoulders.
Symptoms of moderate to severe lymphedema of the head and neck may include:

Severe swelling of the face and neck
Swelling feels hard and hard to the touch
Visual or auditory impairment
Difficulty breathing, swallowing, eating, or speaking
Nasal congestion, chronic ear pain
How is head and neck lymphedema diagnosed?

Lymphoscintigraphy or other imaging modalities involving injections of contrast agents to visualize lymphatic fluid flow pathology may lead to a definitive diagnosis of lymphedema, but this is usually diagnosed by mild means. The presence of lymphedema is usually assessed based on observations, the results of the physical examination, the patient’s symptoms, and a review of the patient’s history. Alternative causes of the tumor need to be identified. Accordingly, the early stages of the disease can be particularly difficult to diagnose.

The patient’s subjective findings (such as feeling “tight” or “heavy”) are often the earliest indications, while objective measurements of volume change may be more difficult to obtain. This is especially true for early internal lymphedema and early external lymphedema in areas such as the chin, where there is no symmetrical counterpart that can be compared (as opposed to swelling on one side of the face that can be compared to the other unaffected side).

External lymphedema is often classified into one of four common weights. However, standardization is lacking, and this scale appears to be imperfectly suited for capturing the stage of head and neck lymphedema (Model Number/Ref. 3).

Modification of the Foldy scale for categorizing extrinsic lymphedema does a good job of capturing the range of soft tissue changes seen with progression of untreated head and neck lymphedema (see Table 1), although further validation of the scale is warranted (see Table 1). 4).

Lymphedema Feldi score modified for head and neck Lymphedema Table 1: Modified Feldi score for head and neck clients (ref. 5). This is beyond the time that normal acute post-treatment edema is usually seen.

External lymphedema is identified by visible swelling of the face or neck, and can be best quantified using a “composite facial score” consisting of seven measurements, as well as a “composite neck score” consisting of 3 measurements (model number / Ref. 4) . Measurements are needed to establish baselines, monitor changes, and improve tracking.

In contrast to internal edema, swelling of the mucous membrane and soft tissues of the pharynx and larynx is visible. Internal lymphedema is more difficult to quantify. An endoscopy or examination mirror by an experienced practitioner can be used to measure 11 internal anatomical sites and two Patterson scale sites (art. 5).

risk factors for head and neck lymphedema after cancer treatment

Fundamentally, the risk of lymphedema increases as a function of lymphatic damage. Perhaps the best predictor of likelihood is the number of lymph nodes that were removed during surgery; the more nodes removed, the more likely it is to develop head and neck lymphedema. Studies on head and neck lymphedema show that the total dose of radiotherapy as well as the number of days of radiotherapy also increase the risk of developing lymphedema (Ref. 6).

In addition to the number of lymph nodes removed, additional factors may change your chances of developing head and neck lymphedema. A study of arm lymphedema secondary to breast cancer shows that the chance of lymphedema increases for patients who:

Received chemotherapy before or after surgery (ref.