LYMPHEDEMA COMPLICATIONS
This page has been updated, please see:
Complications of Lymphedema
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/wiki/doku.php?id=complications_of_lymphedema
Home page: Lymphedema People
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com
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There
may be numerous complications you will experience with lymphedema. On
this page
I am going to list some of them. On our forums and other pages there
will be
additional information and links relating to each one in particular.
LIST OF
COMPLICATIONS
1. Infections such as cellulitis, lymphangitis, erysipelas.
This is due not only
to the large accumulation of fluid, but it is well documented that
lymphodemous
limbs are localized immuno-deficient.
2. Draining wounds that leak lymphorrea which is very caustic
to surrounding
skin tissue and acts as a port of entry for infections.
3. Increased pain as a result of the compression of nerves
usually caused by the
development of fibrosis and increased build up of fluids.
4. Loss of Function due to the swelling and limb changes.
5. Depression - Psychological coping as a result of the
disfigurement and
debilitating effect of lymphedema.
6. Deep venous thrombosis again as a result of the pressure
of the swelling and
fibrosis against the vascular system. Also, can happen as a result of
cellulitis, lymphangitis and infections.
7. Sepsis, Gangrene are possibilities as a result of the
infections.
8. Possible amputation of the limb.
9. Pleural effusions may result if the lymphatics in the
abdomen or chest are to
overwhelmed to clear the lung cavity of fluids.
10. Skin complications such as splitting, plaques, susceptibility to
fungus and
bacterial infections.
11. Chronic localized inflammations.
12. Angiosarcoma, a cancer of the soft tissues
13. Lymphangiosarcoma which is a rapidly progressive, non curable cancer of long term lymphedema patients.
14. Lymphoma, new research indicates a possibility of this with hereditary lymphedema. I have been diagnosed with two forms of lymphoma.
15.
Septic arthritis
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LONG TERM
EFFECTS
There are numerous side effects and long term affects you may
experience with
lymphedema. Some of these include fatigue, weight gain, pain (sometimes
to the
extreme), depression, continued swelling of the limbs or abdomen. Some
have
experienced cardio cavity and pleural edema. Lymphedema can also cause
fibrosis.
This is where the limb becomes very hard and can become nonresponsive
to
available treatment options. With extensive fibrosis also comes
heightened risks
of blood clots in the affected areas.
Lymphedema also cause localized immunodeficiency problems. It also may
be
suspect in long term immunity problems, especially in very long term
primary
lymphedema patients. This may be a controversial statement, but I have
known of
primary lymphedema patients who's immune system seems to have collapsed
from
unknown reasons. In my personal situation, mine did just that with the
result I
acquired two different lymphomas. Hopefully, research will be done in
this area.
Lymphangiosarcoma is another possible complication of lymphedema. While
many
LE'ers worry about contracting this, it is extremely rare. Risk factors
are
extreme fibrosis, radiation on fibrotic areas and continued infections.
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Lymphatic Obstruction Complications
Alternate Names : Lymphedema
AllRefer Health
http://health.allrefer.com/health/lymphatic-obstruction-complications.html
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Complications
of Lymphedema, by Bruno
Chikly, M.D
Complications of Lymphedema, by Bruno Chikly, M.D
Complications of
Lymphedema
1) Infection/cellulites
2) Cancer
3) Lymphorrhea, lympho-cutaneous fistula
4) Genital lymphedema
5) Complications due to bandaging
Always bear in mind that infection and cancer are the two major complications of lymphedema.
1) Infection/Cellulitis
A- terminology The secondary infection of lymphedema can be described using different terms: secondary acute inflammation (SAI), cellulitis (any inflammation of the loose subcutaneous tissue), lymphangitis (inflammation or infection of a lymphatic vessel), erysipelas (infection due to streptococcus), septicemia (infection in the blood system, with signs of fever, chills, etc.) and dermatolymphangioadenitis (DLA, inflammation of skin, lymphatic vessels and nodes - Olszewski W.L., JamalS, 1994).
These are infections usually caused by Staphylococcusaureus, penicillin-sensitive Streptococcus, or fungus. Lymphangitis is specifically an inflammation of a lymphatic vessel, usually seen clinically as red stripes running along an extremity.
B- Description The inflammatory process starts in the skin, most often in the web spaces between the toes, the hand, or the anal region, and proceeds along lymphatic vessels to regional lymph nodes. The origin of the infection is very often facilitated by a crack in the skin secondary to a fungal infection. (The skin of the foot is broken three times more often than that of the upper extremity in lymphedema.) Rupture of the skin can also take place with trauma, insect bites, needles of any kind, postoperative fluid extraction, post-radiation dermatitis, etc. Infection will generally increase the swelling and make the edema more difficult to treat and more likely to be irreversible. That is why preventative care is really important to avoid fungus, (e.g. athlete 's foot), ingrown toenails, streptococcal or staphylococcal infections, etc.
C- rate of infection: Chronic inflammation is a condition experienced by many lymphedema patients. An estimated 25 to 40% of patients have clinical infection. In a study of 353 cases of Saskia Thiadens, (Thiadens S., 91), 31% of males and 33% of females with chronic lymphedema had had one or more episodes of infection, including 26% of primary lymphedema patients versus 36% suffering from secondary lymphedema.
Signs of secondary infection - The signs of infection can often be negligible and the therapist must be extremely vigilant for them. The physician may prescribe antibiotic therapy if he or she suspects it. Signs of SAI can also be unmistakable with high fever and chills; the patient may require a ten-day hospitalization with intravenous antibiotic therapy.
Clinical signs of infections: - Minor rash or red streaks may be visible. Any of the following may be present or not:: Itching, tenderness, dull aching in a limb, blotchy areas, small blisters, general malaise, etc. In septicemia fever, chills and nausea are common. The signs may include aggravation of the lymphedema condition: Increase in edema volume so that the medical compression feels too tight for reasons that are unclear. Lymph nodes may become enlarged, or pain may occur in lymph nodes. There may be an elevation of temperature of the extremity. Pain may appear or increase, with tender spots, heaviness, tightness, tiredness, etc. Fistulae (lymphorrhea) may also occur; the reason for this is not known.
Chronic secondary infections are more difficult to assess, with slight elevation in skin temperature, increased sensitivity, slight itching or redness. Sometimes the redness (erythema) is not present if the infection is situated deep in the tissue. This condition may be pain-free in a patient whose affected limb is numb. Some episodes of infection are milder and resolve in a few days without antibiotic treatment. Fungusor staphylococcus may be the agents causing these kinds of infections.
D- Prevention of Secondary Infection: - Decongestion of the edema - Extremely careful skin care - Prophylactic antibiotic therapy may be suggested by the physician in cases of recurrent SAI. Allergic inquiry / test is recommended first.
E- Treatment: The therapist should be able to work with a medical team. It is imperative to check with a physician if there is any suspicion of secondary infection, and scrupulously treat any infection. Hands-on lymphatic drainage and medical compression (bandages, garments) should be interrupted until the condition is under control (at least 48 to 72 hours, up to 8 days). The signs of infections (edema, erythema, warmth, aching, etc.) should have clearly disappeared. Antibiotic therapy: Bacterial infection calls for immediate antibiotic therapy. The sensitivity of the bacteria to antibiotics (regular penicillin G) is generally good.
Suggested treatment (Olszewski W.L.): first episode: 3 months of antibiotic therapy. If there are more than two episodes, one year's antibiotic therapy may be indicated. Check for the few adverse effects of prolonged antibiotic therapy: change in intestinal flora, gastro-intestinal disorders, damage to liver, kidneys and bones, allergic reactions, etc. Where the patient is allergic to penicillin, erythromycin usually works well. After one episode of infection, it may be wise for lymphedema patients to carry a supply of antibiotics or a prescription with them, especially when traveling away from home.
Published with permission from the author of Silent Waves Theory And Practice Of Lymph Drainage Therapy (Ldt) With Applications For Lymphedema, Chronic Pain And Inflammation Author: Bruno Chikly, M.D.2000 Publisher: I.H.H. Publishing, Arizona. Isbn Hard Cover = 0-9700530-5-3 Part 3, Chapter 9, page 209-210
About The Author
Bruno Chikly, M.D., is a graduate of the medical school at Saint Antoine Hospital in France, where his internship in general medicine included training in endocrinology, surgery, neurology and psychiatry.
Dr.Chikly also earned the French equivalent of a Master 's degree in psychology. His doctoral thesis addressing the lymphatic system, its historical evolution and the manual lymphatic drainage technique was awarded a Medal of the Medical Faculty of Paris, VI, a prestigious acknowledgment for in-depth work and scientific presentation.
He extensively studied osteopathic techniques and other hands-on modalities both in Europe and in the USA, including Manual Lymphatic Therapies, Cranio-sacral Therapy, Visceral Manipulation, Mechanical Link, Muscle Energy, Strain/Counter Strain, Myofascia Release, Neuromuscular Therapy, Somato Emotional Release.
Lymph Drainage Therapy workshops are taught in collaboration with Upledger Institute (USA) in Brazil, Canada, and the United States, Germany, Israel, Tunisia, China, Singapore. He is member of the International Society of Lymphology (I.S.L.), Associate Member of The American Academy of Osteopathy (A.A.O.).
He is also on the Advisory Board of the Massage and Bodywork Journal (Churchill Livingstone) and listed in the Millennium edition of the Marquis Who 's Who in the World. He is an international seminar leader, writer and lecturer. He has spoken to numerous North American medical and health related groups, and many lymphedema support groups. He lives in Arizona with is wife and partner Alaya
*link no longer available*
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Lymphedema complicated by pain and psychological distress: a
case with
complex treatment needs.
Abstract
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=8973048&dopt=Abstract
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Venous dynamics in leg lymphedema.
Abstract
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=10197322&dopt=Abstract
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De Quervain's tenosynovitis in patients with lymphedema: a
report of 2 cases
with management approach.
Lin JT, Stubblefield MD.
Abstract
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=14586925&dopt=Abstract
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See Also:
Cellulitis, Lymphangitis
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_cellulitis_lymphangit.htm
Deep Venous Thrombosis
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_deep_venous_thrombosis.htm
Fibrosis
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_fibrosis.htm
Immunodificient Limb
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_immunodificient_limb.htm
Pain
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_pain.htm
Pleural Effusions
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_pleural_effusions.htm
Wounds
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_wounds.htm
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Join us as we work for lymphedema patients everywehere:
Advocates for Lymphedema
Dedicated to be an advocacy group for lymphedema patients. Working towards education, legal reform, changing insurance practices, promoting research, reaching for a cure.
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/AdvocatesforLymphedema/
| Subscribe: | AdvocatesforLymphedema-subscribe@yahoogroups.com |
Pat O'Connor
Lymphedema People / Advocates for Lymphedema
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For information about Lymphedema
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/all_about_lymphedema.htm
For Information about Lymphedema Complications
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_complications.htm
For Lymphedema Personal Stories
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/forum/forum.asp?FORUM_ID=7
For information about Lymphedema Wounds
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_wound_care_revised.htm
For information about Lymphedema Treatment Options
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_treatment_options_revised.htm
For information about Children's Lymphedema
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/thesite/lymphedema_childrens_pediatric.htm
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Lymphedema Glossary
http://www.lymphedemapeople.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=247
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Lymphedema People
Support Groups
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Children
with Lymphedema
The time has come for families, parents, caregivers to have a support
group of
their own. Support group for parents, families and caregivers of
chilren with
lymphedema. Sharing information on coping, diagnosis, treatment and
prognosis.
Sponsored by Lymphedema People.
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/childrenwithlymphedema/
Subscribe: childrenwithlymphedema-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
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Lipedema
Lipodema Lipoedema
No matter how you spell it, this is another very little understood and
totally
frustrating conditions out there. This will be a support group for
those
suffering with lipedema/lipodema. A place for information, sharing
experiences,
exploring treatment options and coping.
Come join, be a part of the family!
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/lipedema_lipodema_lipoedema/?yguid=209645515
Subscribe: lipedema_lipodema_lipoedema-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
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MEN WITH LYMPHEDEMA
If you are a man with
lymphedema; a man with a loved
one with lymphedema who you are trying to help and understand come join
us and
discover what it is to be the master instead of the sufferer of
lymphedema.
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/menwithlymphedema/
Subscribe: menwithlymphedema-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
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All
About Lymphangiectasia
Support group for parents, patients, children who suffer from all forms
of
lymphangiectasia. This condition is caused by dilation of the
lymphatics. It can
affect the intestinal tract, lungs and other critical body areas.
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/allaboutlymphangiectasia/
Subscribe: allaboutlymphangiectasia-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
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Lymphatic
Disorders Support Group @ Yahoo Groups
While we have a number of support groups for lymphedema... there is
nothing out
there for other lymphatic disorders. Because we have one of the most
comprehensive information sites on all lymphatic disorders, I thought
perhaps,
it is time that one be offered.
DISCRIPTION
Information and support for rare and unusual disorders affecting the
lymph
system. Includes lymphangiomas, lymphatic malformations,
telangiectasia,
hennekam's syndrome, distichiasis, Figueroa
syndrome, ptosis syndrome, plus many more. Extensive database of
information
available through sister site Lymphedema People.
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/lymphaticdisorders/
Subscribe: lymphaticdisorders-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
......................
All
About Lymphedema
For our Google fans, we have just created this online support group in
Google
Groups:
Homepage: http://groups-beta.google.com/group/All-About-Lymphedema
Group email: All-About-Lymphedema@googlegroups.com
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Lymphedema
Friends
http://groups.aol.com/lymphedemafriend
If you an AOL fan and looking for a
support group in AOL
Groups, come and join us there.
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Lymphedema and Edema RelatedConditions
Hereditary Conditions of the Lymphatics
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