Lymphedema

The Lymphedema topic includes research on the causes, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of hereditary (primary) and acquired (secondary) lymphedema, a condition caused by accumulation of lymph fluid. Lymphedema is chronic swelling that typically occurs in the arms or legs.

Primary lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system does not develop properly and is extremely rare. Secondary lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system becomes damaged, often through cancer treatment or parasite infections. Cancer survivors with secondary lymphedema experience poor physical functioning, impaired ability to engage in normal activities of daily living, and increased psychological distress.