Lymphedema Affects Quality Of Life

Lymphedema Affects Quality Of Life

May 10, 2007

Lymphedema

Almost one-third of young breast cancer survivors surveyed by researchers at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer said their quality of life suffered because they experienced lymphedema, an often debilitating consequence of breast cancer treatment.

The findings are significant because they point to the need for preventive education, says principal investigator Electra Paskett, associate director of population sciences at Ohio State's Comprehensive Cancer Center.

"This is the first study in the United States to look at the incidence, prevalence and persistence of lymphedema among young breast cancer survivors, and how having lymphedema negatively affects their quality of life," says Paskett. "We found that the women who reported persistent swelling of their arms or hands after surgery or radiation were more likely to report poorer quality of life."

The research involved 622 breast cancer survivors who were 45 years or younger at diagnosis. They were monitored with semiannual questionnaires for 36 months after breast cancer surgery to determine the incidence of lymphedema, prevalence of swelling, factors associated with each and quality of life.

The study is published in the April issue of the Journal of Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention.

Lymphedema is a common complication of cancer therapy and is characterized by an accumulation of lymphatic fluid, which causes swelling, most often in the arms or legs. Lymphedema can occur anywhere lymph nodes have been surgically removed or lymph flow has been disturbed.

The study found that 54 percent of participants reported at least one incidence of swelling of the arm or hand within 36 months after surgery, with 32 percent reporting persistent swelling. Swelling was reported to in the upper arm by 43 percent of the women; in the hand only by 34 percent; and in both arm and hand in 22 percent of participants.

Factors associated with an increased risk of developing swelling included having a greater number of lymph nodes removed, receiving chemotherapy and being obese. Factors associated with persistent swelling included having more lymph nodes removed and being obese. Weight management may be a potential intervention for those at greatest risk of lymphedema to maintain optimal health-related quality of life among survivors, Paskett says.

Women who reported swelling had significantly lower quality of life compared to women without swelling, Paskett says.

"These are the women we are most concerned about," says Paskett, a two- time breast cancer survivor who struggles with a mild case of lymphedema. She does daily exercises and occasionally wears a pressure sleeve and glove to control her swelling.

"If we can identify women who are at greatest risk of developing lymphedema, then we can educate them about the problem, so they can watch for symptoms and seek early treatment," Paskett says.

The majority of women in the study reported mild swelling. But even that can interfere with daily activities and negatively affect quality of life, she says.

"Some women must buy larger clothing because of the swelling, while others can't wear rings or button their blouses because their fingers are swollen," Paskett says. "For many, lymphedema is a constant reminder that they had cancer."

Paskett also is the principal investigator of a major, multicenter clinical trial that will enroll 500 women nationwide in the Lymphedema and Education Awareness Program. The ongoing study will test a program to prevent lymphedema in women who have been treated for breast cancer.
There is always a risk of developing lymphedema after the removal of lymph nodes during breast cancer surgery, and the condition can develop immediately, in months or even years later, Paskett says.

"It is important for women to recognize the signs and symptoms of lymphedema and seek treatment immediately to lessen the severity," Paskett says.

Microsurgery for treatment of peripheral lymphedema: Long-term outcome and future perspectives.

Microsurgery for treatment of peripheral lymphedema: Long-term outcome and future perspectives.

Microsurgery. 2007 May 3

Campisi C,
Eretta C,
Pertile D,
Da Rin E,
Campisi C,
Maccio A,
Campisi M,
Accogli S,
Bellini C,
Bonioli E,
Boccardo F.
Department of Surgery, Unit of Lymphatic Surgery and Microsurgery, San Martino Hospital, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.

Authors report over 30 years of their own clinical experience in the treatment of chronic peripheral lymphedemas by microsurgical techniques performed at the Center of Lymphatic Surgery of the University of Genoa, Italy. Over 1,500 lymphedema patients were treated with microsurgical techniques. Derivative lymphatic-venous techniques were most often used. For those cases where a venous disease was associated to lymphedema, reconstructive lymphatic microsurgery techniques were performed (lymphatic-venous-lymphatic-plasty).

Objective assessment was undertaken by water volumetry and lymphoscintigraphy. Volume changes showed a significant improvement in over 83%, with an average follow-up of more than 10 years. There was an 87% reduction in the incidence of cellulitic attacks after microsurgery.

Microsurgical lymphatic-venous anastomoses have a place in the treatment of peripheral lymphedema and should be the therapy of choice in patients who are not sufficiently responsive to nonoperative treatment. Improved results can be expected with operations performed at earlier lymphedema stages. (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 2007.

PMID: 17477420 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Life is Worth Living with Lymphedema - Upcoming Book

Life is Worth Living with Lymphedema

Upcoming Book

From: The Lighthouse Lymphedema Network

YES, WE ARE WRITING A BOOK

The LLN is looking for patients, family members, therapists, or physicians to write inspirational short stories of why “Life is Worth Living with Lymphedema”. These stories may be from:

Patients who developed lymphedema after surgical, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment for breast cancer or other types of cancer (secondary lymphedema)

Patients who were born with lymphedema (primary lymphedema) Patients who developed lymphedema from other surgeries such as: knee or hip replacement, abdominal surgeries, fracture, infection, other Family members who are caregivers for lymphedema patients Therapists: successful treatment stories, caring family stories, unusual stories .

Physicians: personal observations and comments The main goal of our book is to let patients and family members know that they are not alone. We care, and we are here for you – always! Help us to help others – the goal for the money raised from the sale of the book is to help indigent patients through our Bandages and Garments (BAG) Fund.

All patients have a story to tell, so let us hear from you! Please print out and fill in the form (click here) and submit your story to the LLN, c/o Linda Gottschalk at the adddress shown on the form.

I am submitting my own story - send us yours as well Pat O'Connor

The Use of Bioimpedance Analysis to Evaluate Lymphedema.

The Use of Bioimpedance Analysis to Evaluate Lymphedema.

Ann Plast Surg. 2007 May Warren AG, Janz BA, Slavin SA, Borud LJ. From the *Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; daggerBaylor College of Medicine Plastic Surgery Program, Houston, TX; and the double daggerDivision of Plastic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA.

BACKGROUND: Lymphedema, a chronic disfiguring condition resulting from lymphatic dysfunction or disruption, can be difficult to accurately diagnose and manage. Of particular challenge is identifying the presence of clinically significant limb swelling through simple and noninvasive methods. Many historical and currently used techniques for documenting differences in limb volume, including volume displacement and circumferential measurements, have proven difficult and unreliable. Bioimpedance spectroscopy analysis, a technology that uses resistance to electrical current in comparing the composition of fluid compartments within the body, has been considered as a cost-effective and reproducible alternative for evaluating patients with suspected lymphedema.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: All patients were recruited through the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Lymphedema Clinic. A total of 15 patients (mean age: 55.2 years) with upper-extremity or lower-extremity lymphedema as documented by lymphoscintigraphy underwent bioimpedance spectroscopy analysis using an Impedimed SFB7 device. Seven healthy medical students and surgical residents (mean age: 26.9 years) were selected to serve as normal controls. All study participants underwent analysis of both limbs, which allowed participants to act as their own controls. The multifrequency bioimpedance device documented impedance values for each limb, with lower values correlating with higher levels of accumulated protein-rich edematous fluid.

RESULTS: The average ratio of impedance to current flow of the affected limb to the unaffected limb in lymphedema patients was 0.9 (range: 0.67 to 1.01). In the control group, the average impedance ratio of the participant's dominant limb to their nondominant limb was 0.99 (range: 0.95 to 1.02) (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS: Bioimpedance spectroscopy can be used as a reliable and accurate tool for documenting the presence of lymphedema in patients with either upper- or lower-extremity swelling. Measurement with the device is quick and simple and results are reproducible among patients. Given significant limitations with other methods of evaluating lymphedema, the use of bioimpedance analysis may aid in the diagnosis of lymphedema and allow for tracking patients over time as they proceed with treatment of their disease.

PMID: 17452840 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

H.R. 1846, The Medicare Access to Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Services Improvement Act

We (Lymphedema Stakeholders) are part of the coalition working on this and Lymphedema People submitted a support document as well.

Lymphedema Patients - here is your chance to speak and make your voices heard!!!!!!

Dear Coalition members, supporters and friends:

I am pleased to announce that Rep. Ed Towns (D-NY) introduced legislation that will restore the right of physicians to determine what health professionals are best suited to provide physical medicine and rehabilitation services to Medicare beneficiaries under the supervision of a physician.

H.R. 1846, The Medicare Access to Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Services Improvement Act, will restore physician choice of who they can hire to provide therapy services to their Medicare patients. By restoring physician authority, all of the Coalition’s members and friends who can legally provide physical medicine and rehabilitation services under the supervision of a physician will be covered by the “incident to” section of the bill.

We expect a companion bill to be introduced in the Senate soon.

This legislation is an important step toward ensuring that Medicare beneficiaries have access to quality health care and restoring physician choice of therapy providers working under the physician’s supervision.

Like the bill introduced in the 109th Congress, H.R. 1846 also establishes education and credentialing standards for athletic trainers and lymphedema therapists as Medicare-covered providers. There have been two minor changes to this bill compared to the version introduced in the Senate last year. The first change is that it more clearly designates the physician/hospital/clinic as the entity that will receive payment. The second change only relates to athletic trainers. It states that in the six states where there is no athletic trainer (AT) licensure, both a bachelor’s degree and national certification will be required in order for the AT to qualify as a Medicare-covered provider.

We are requesting your help with the following:

· Immediately activate your grassroots and tell them to ask their Representatives to co-sponsor H.R. 1846. One of the largest organizations representing therapy providers already covered by Medicare, worked hard to discourage Rep. Towns from even introducing this bill. Ask your members, professional colleagues and patients to send support letters and attend home-town meetings to demonstrate their support of this legislation and Rep. Towns’ bold leadership. Go here for a list of district offices to call to find out the next coalition Web site.

· Make an appointment to see your Representative while he or she in the district over the Spring work session. A meeting with your representatives in your home town will make an impact. ·

Contact me if you plan to travel to Washington D.C. I will assist you with getting appointments with your Representative and talking points, etc.

· Get your physicians, other health care providers and patients involved.

Please contact me and let me know what action you will take to support this legislation and Rep. Towns in his leadership role. I will be happy to assist with news releases and letter writing. Talking points and Q&A are located on the Coalition web site. I will continue to serve as the Coalition’s organizer at no cost to you, the Coalition member, supporter or friend.

If you are not already a member of the Coalition, please consider joining. There are no dues, no fees or commitment to action. We only ask that you support the Coalition’s original mission of reversing the therapy-incident to problem. If you know of patient groups that can support this effort, ask them to join also. Local, state, regional and national groups are welcome.

Thank you for your support and contribution of your valuable resources. On behalf of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, we are grateful for your support. NATA believes that together we can get the unfair and ill-advised therapy-incident to rule corrected and improve patient care. Our opposition wants to continue to limit patient access to quality health care and not allow physician choice of who can provide therapy services. They continue to spread misinformation about the educational and clinical qualifications of therapy providers like you, and we need each other’s commitment to action and change.

You can make the difference today.

With best regards and many thanks,

Cate Brennan Lisak, Organizer for catel@nata.org

214.637.6282 ext. 148 * 214.637.2206 F

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Medicare Access to Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Services Improvement Act of 2007 - Amends title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act to provide for: (1) access to outpatient occupational and physical therapy services provided incident to a physician's professional services if furnished by an educated or credentialed therapist who does not have a license; and (2) coverage of certified athletic trainer services and lymphedema therapist services under part B (Supplementary Medical Insurance) of Medicare, including those provided in rural health clinics and federally qualified health centers.

Supported and Endorsed by

Pat O'Connor
Lymphedema People

Surviving cancer and lymphedema

Surviving cancer and lymphedema

April 19, 2007

Stories by STEPHANIE FOSNIGHT Staff Writer

Last week Health & Family examined some of the challenges facing cancer survivors, particularly those who have survived bone marrow/stem cell transplants as treatment for leukemia and lymphoma.

This week we focus on those who have beaten breast cancer.

Breast cancer survivors belong to a massive and growing group, thanks to early detection and strong funding for research.

"In the United States, there are about 10 million cancer survivors each year, and about a quarter of them are breast cancer survivors," said nurse Carole Martz, clinical coordinator of the LIFE cancer survivorship program at Evanston Northwestern Healthcare.

Still, those who have had breast cancer have a higher risk of recurrence than survivors of other types of cancer. A breast cancer survivor is also more likely than the general population to develop ovarian, uterine, colon, skin or opposite-breast cancer.

These patients also often experience side effects like fatigue, weight gain, sexual dysfunction and a painful swelling condition called lymphedema. And, like other cancer survivors, they face psychosocial concerns and health insurance complications.

The medical community is realizing that these patients still must be monitored even once they're cancer-free. New organizations like the LIFE program, which began last year with a focus on breast cancer survivors and is now including other cancer patients, offer tools to help survivors navigate life after cancer.

"Survivorship is a unique phase of cancer care," Martz said. "We're just getting the word out that these issues are pervasive."

A rocky transition

Deerfield resident Helen Hackett was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2006, after a lump appeared on a routine mammogram. The find was a big surprise for the 48-year-old Hackett but she immediately entered treatment. Within five months she had finished the regimen and the cancer was gone, but Hackett recalled the abrupt change between being a cancer patient and a cancer survivor.

"Suddenly, there's no doctor watching you every minute," she said. "Every time you get an ache or a pain, you think, 'What is that?'"

Martz said many breast cancer patients who have graduated from treatment feel vulnerable and confused.

"They're getting intense care and then the doctor says they'll see them in six months," Martz said. "I see people who have been out two or three years and still have questions."

One tool Hackett received when she joined the LIFE program a few months later was a handout explaining which symptoms warranted calling the oncologist.

"To have it set forth in such a straightforward way was really helpful," she said.

For example, Martz counsels her patients to call the doctor if they've stopped getting their periods and then experience spotting.

"We might think her periods are coming back but it might be uterine cancer," she said. "Patients must be informed that these are the symptoms you have to report."

Breast cancer survivors must not only be carefully watched for cancer recurrences, weight gain and sexuality issues, but also be aware that they are more prone to osteoporosis, infertility and early menopause.

Swelling from lymphedema can appear after surgery or radiation, causing lymph fluid to accumulate in the arm of a breast cancer patient. Lymphedema affects up to 20 percent of breast cancer survivors.

Common complaints

Then there are the complaints that are harder to pin down, such as fatigue and cognitive inefficiencies often labeled chemo-brain.

"In general, fatigue is the most common complaint I hear from breast cancer patients," said naturopath Tim Birdsall, vice president of integrative medicine at Cancer Treatment Centers of America-Zion.

Antioch resident Janet Guhl is a breast cancer survivor and also also a surgical nurse at Cancer Treatment Cetners. Although Guhl, 68, has rebounded from her 1999 treatment, it took awhile.
"I felt crummy and tired for a long time," she said.

Hackett, a professional fitness instructor, also noticed the change in her stamina.

"I don't bounce back quite as quickly after I exercise," she said. "That resiliency is not there right now, but I'm working through it."

Birdsall said his breast cancer patients also talk a lot about chemo-brain, a condition suffered by many cancer patients who received high doses of chemotherapy and radiation.

"Do I believe chemo-brain exists?" Hackett asked. "Absolutely. Do I feel like I'm suffering from it? On a daily basis. I have trouble keeping track of things and my short-term memory is shot."

Though Hackett isn't able to recall as many details as before, she tries to keep her brain sharp by doing cognitive puzzles.

"I feel it does help me stay a little sharper and think a little faster," she said.

Getting informed

When Martz meets with a new survivor, she tells her it's time to think about the rest of her life.
"We want to make sure she has a physical every year to check for blood pressure problems, diabetes, weight gain," Martz said. "We talk about wellness in general."

Since Hackett is an exercise guru, she didn't have too many lifestyle changes to make after cancer, but Martz did inform her about the lymphedema risk, which made Hackett alter her workout routine.

"I still lift what a lot of people would consider a fair amount of weight, but I set myself a limit," she said. "I won't go above a certain number of pounds."

Handling stress

All of these concerns can put a heavy emotional burden on cancer survivors. Whether they've lived through breast cancer or another cancer, they're likely to experience Damocles Syndrome, the psychological fear of recurrence.

"Imagine you have an appointment with your physician and he's going to tell you whether or not your disease has come back, news that makes all the difference in the world," said psychologist Richard McQuellon, who counsels cancer survivors at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. "It's surprising how little people talk about this."

Guhl lost her husband to cancer three months before her own diagnosis but said that, despite the toll the disease has taken on her family, she has peace that she is in the right place now.
"Cancer was a difficult journey but it was worthwhile because of all I learned about God and his care and the love I received from my family and my church," Guhl said.

She's on the right track for coping with post-cancer stress, according to McQuellon.

"Being embedded in a loving community of family, faith and friends helps," he said. McQuellon also said there's new evidence showing the brain releases positive chemicals when patients talk about their fears and pressures.

"Talking helps. You're literally creating a new feeling," he said. "A sensation of discomfort can be altered by words."

Now the nurse Guhl gets her cancer patients talking about the disease by sharing her own experience. A woman of strong faith, she urges those who feel comfortable to pray that their faith might be strengthened.

The hardest moment for Hackett was having to tell her son, then 11, about her cancer. But she was surprised by the boy's calm reaction.

"He said, 'Did they catch this early? Then you're going to be OK,'" she said.

Hackett, who said her son learned about breast cancer through the Discovery Channel, then realized the next generation has a much more optimistic view of cancer.

"He had a totally different perspective than my parents, who were devastated, because in their generation cancer meant death," she said. "The fact that there are so many people surviving has changed what cancer means."

Evanston Review

Secondary Lymphedema From Infections

Lymphedema Caused by Infections Cellulitis and Erysipelas

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Persistent Periorbital and Facial Lymphedema Associated With Group A beta-Hemolytic Streptococcal Infection (Erysipelas).

Ophthal Plast Reconstr Surg. 2007 March/April Buckland GT 3rd, Carlson JA, Meyer DR. *Department of Ophthalmology; and daggerPathology, Division of Dermatology and Dermatopathology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, U.S.A.

Chronic lymphedema is both a risk factor for and consequence of erysipelas (cellulitis). We report a case of a 62-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis treated with etanercept and prednisone, who developed chronic periorbital lymphedema 2 months after Group A beta- hemolytic streptococcus infection of the face. She had significant ptosis OS and thickened, hyperpigmented periorbital skin. Biopsies were consistent with chronic lymphedema. Of note, on 6 months follow- up, the patient's appearance was improved though she still had residual ptosis. A period of extended observation may be warranted in these cases. PMID: 17413641

[PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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Edema as a risk factor for multiple episodes of cellulitis/erysipelas of the lower leg

Date: 4/9/07 9:36 AM EST

2006 Nov CLINICAL AND LABORATORY INVESTIGATIONS Cox NH. Dermatology Department, Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle CA2 7HY, UK. neil.cox@ncumbria-acute.nhs.uk

BACKGROUND: Cellulitis of the lower leg is a common problem with considerable morbidity. Risk factors are well identified but the relationship between consequences of cellulitis and further episodes is less well understood.

OBJECTIVES: To review risk factors, treatment and complications in patients with lower leg cellulitis, to determine the frequency of long-term complications and of further episodes, and any relationship between them, and to consider the likely impact of preventive strategies based on these results.

METHODS: Patients with ascending, presumed streptococcal, cellulitis of the lower leg were identified retrospectively from hospital coding. Hospital records, together with questionnaires to both general practitioners and patients, were used to record subsequent complications and identifiable risk factors for further episodes.

RESULTS: Of 171 patients, 81 (47%) had recurrent episodes and 79 (46%) had chronic oedema. The concurrence of these two factors was strongly correlated.

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that the true frequency of postcellulitic oedema, as well as that of further episodes, is probably underestimated. Furthermore, there is a strong association between these factors, each of which is both a risk factor for, and a consequence of, each other, and for which intervention (reduction of oedema or more prolonged antibiotic therapy) may reduce the risk of recurrent infection. By contrast, self-reporting of toeweb maceration is low, so attempts to reduce the risk of recurrent cellulitis by treatment of tinea pedis or bacterial intertrigo may fail.

Blackwell Synergy

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Persistent Periorbital and Facial Lymphedema Associated With Group A beta-Hemolytic Streptococcal Infection (Erysipelas).

Ophthal Plast Reconstr Surg. 2007 March/April
Buckland GT 3rd, Carlson JA, Meyer DR. *Department of Ophthalmology; and daggerPathology, Division of Dermatology and Dermatopathology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, U.S.A.

Chronic lymphedema is both a risk factor for and consequence of erysipelas (cellulitis). We report a case of a 62-year-old woman with rheumatoid arthritis treated with etanercept and prednisone, who developed chronic periorbital lymphedema 2 months after Group A beta- hemolytic streptococcus infection of the face. She had significant ptosis OS and thickened, hyperpigmented periorbital skin. Biopsies were consistent with chronic lymphedema. Of note, on 6 months follow- up, the patient's appearance was improved though she still had residual ptosis. A period of extended observation may be warranted in these cases.

PMID: 17413641 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Lipedema, Lipodema, Lipoedema, Lipo-Lipedema Facts

Lipedema, Lipodema, Lipoedema, Lipo-Lipedema Facts

Related Terms: Lipedema, lipedema, lipodystrophy, lipadema, lipo-lymphedema

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What is:

Lipodema is a medical condition that is often confused with lymphedema. The individual with this condition may appear to be simply obese and/or to have extremely swollen legs and swollen abdomen. The condition is an uneven distribution of fat cells in the sub-cutaneous regions generally in the legs or abdomen. One major frustration of people with lipodema is that they are accused of being simply "fat," which is absolutely not the case.

Etiology/ Cause:

Unknown, hereditary, genetic

Complications:

Perhaps one of the most critical complication is the acquisition of secondary lymphedema. The increased weight can crush the lymphatics causing blockages and hindrances to lymphatic flow. Another complication is deterioration of the joints and vertebrae from the excessive weight. Other complications may include varicose veins and/or the deep venous system. Many lipodema patients also experience a tremendous amount of pain due to the condition and the affects on the body's systems. Other complications may include "pins and needles" discomfort, decreased vascular flow in the affected limbs and a decreased skin temperature in the affected limbs.

Treatments:

There is no known "cure" for lipodema. Because it is not a medical condition caused by over-eating and improper nutrition habits, diets will not a much of an effect. Neither can the condition be treated with medicines or diuretics.

Treatments that have helped include massage therapy in conjunction with compression bandages, benzopyrones, which includes the use of coumarin. Liposuction has also been used, but the long term success is still open to debate.

Lipodema or Lymphedema:

The signs of lipodema are distinctly differant from lymphedema. First, swelling does not extend to the feet, but extends from the abdomen to the ankle. Second, the limb texture is rubbery not hard. Third, pitting edema is not present. Fourth, Stemmer's sign is negative and finally infections that plague lymphedema patients are generally not a problem with lipodema. The reason for this is that lipodema is not caused by a malformed or damaged lymphatic system.

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Lipedema – what do we know?

by Professor Horst Weissleder

Allen and Hines described in 1940 (1) “a clinical syndrome, lipedema of the legs, which is frequently very distressing. In our experience it affects solely women. The chief complaint is of swelling of the legs and feet. On questioning, the physician may elicit that enlargement of the limbs has always been generalized and symmetrical. The swelling below the knees is accentuated when patients are on their feet much and in warm weather. Aching distress in the legs is common.”Since then most of the articles dealing with lipedema have been published in Europe.

Definition

Lipedema (painful fat syndrome) can be defined as a chronic disease that occurs in female patients and is characterized by bilateral, symmetrical fatty tissue augmentation mainly in the hip region and upper and lower leg combined with a tendency to orthostatic edema. In male patients lipedema is extremely rare (2).

Morphology

Fat cells have a spherical shape and like any other cells contain fat deposits covered by a micro filament-reinforced cell membrane. Groups of fat cells form lobes which are surrounded by fibrous tissue. The septa between the lobes contain blood and lymph vessels and nerves. Fatty tissue has an excellent blood supply but fat cell-associated lymph capillaries are not present. Lipedema is likely triggered by a microangiopathy with an increased fragility of the blood capillaries. The increased capillary permeability then leads to a protein-rich intercellular edema. In subsequent stages, inflammation sets in leading to perivascular fibrosis, afew areas of fatty tissue necrosis, oil cysts and an increase in the number of the macrophages. Prominent mast cell recruitment and other inflammatory effects eventually lead to interstitial fibrosis (4).

Pathogenesis

Right now, the pathogenesis of lipedema and other types of fatty tissue enlargement (lipohypertrophy and obesity) is still unclear. According to the literature, the regulation of the fat metabolism seems to be a very complex process. There might be interaction with the nervous system, different hormones and the microcirculation (3). Genetic factors may play a role too. Details regarding the connections of the different systems and the possible influence of drugs have yet to be clarified. In addition, it is not known exactly if the increase of fatty tissue is caused by hypertrophy or hyperplasia of the fat cells (adipocytes). An increased blood flow and an increased angiomotoricity support fat reduction. In contrast a reduced blood flow seems to increase the storage of fat. The same may be true in cases of a reduced lymph flow.

Diagnosis

Basic diagnostic procedures including medical history, inspection and palpation and additional laboratory tests provide the basis for further examinations that might be necessary to finally assess the disease. In most cases, lipedema (symmetrical, pillar like volume augmentation) develops during puberty or some years later. Heavy hips and thighs are obvious signs. Women with lipedema frequently complain about pain by compression independent of the extent of fatty tissue proliferation. Small injuries that cause no macroscopic lesions in healthy people can result in hematoma due to an increased fragility of the blood vessel wall. When the lymphatic system is not damaged the feet are normal and the Stemmer sign negative. Lipedema is frequently seen in female relatives (e.g. mother, grandmother, sisters).Based on inspection and palpation lipedema can be graded into three stages:Stage I: has a normal skin surface. The subcutaneous fatty tissue has a soft consistency but multiple small nodules can be palpated. This stage can last for several years.Stage II: the skin surface becomes uneven and harder due to the increasing nodular structure (big nodules) of the subcutaneous fatty tissue (liposclerosis).Stage III: is characterized by lobular deformation due to increased fatty tissue. The palpable nodules varying in size from a walnut up to a fist and can be distinguished from the surrounding tissue by palpation. When the skin is pushed together, the so called peau d’orange or mattress phenomenon can be demonstrated.

Differential diagnosis

The most common mistake in the assessment of lipedema is diagnosis as lymphedema. The false diagnosis is usually based on the fact that the entire set of lipedema symptoms are often not known and cannot be found in many textbooks. Therefore, massive lipedematous volume increases in the legs are commonly diagnosed as obesity or lymphostatic elephantiasis (7, 8). On the other hand lipedema can be seen quite often combined with other diseases e.g. obesity, chronic venous insufficiency and lymphedema. With lipo-lymphedema, the tissue is indurated and pretibial indentations can be made. Contrary to simple lipedema, the regions of the ankle and the dorsal foot are edematous. Natural skin creases are deepened and a positive Stemmer sign confirms damage of the lymphatic system (7, 8).

Treatment

Up till now lipedema could only be treated using conservative methods with complex physical therapy and exercises. By this, a reduction of edema and a decrease or elimination of tension and pain could be reached. Nowadays the increased fat volume can be removed by surgical therapy with liposuction in tumescent local anesthesia. However, an existing lymphangiopathy must be considered as a contraindication. Liposuction is the most frequently used cosmetic procedure not only in the United States but also in Germany. Cosmetic surgery is lucrative and is increasingly being performed by non-plastic surgeons and non-physicians, some of whom have little more experience than a weekend seminar. The public perception of this cosmetic procedure as minor cosmetic surgery fails to consider the possibility that major complications may result from this which could cause fatal outcome according to recent publications. Therefore it is strongly recommended that liposuction in lipedema be performed only in specialized centers using modern techniques (5, 6). Finally, it should be mentioned that lipedema is not caused by excessive consumption of calories; hence calorie reduction will not be beneficial. Dietary measures are advised only with obesity.

References

Allen E V, Hines E A, Lipoedema of the legs. A syndrome characterized by fat legs and edema. Proc Staff. Meat. Mayo Clinic 1940; 15:1842) Chen, S. G., Hsu, S. D., Chen, T. M., Wang, H. J. Painful fat syndrome in a male patient. Br J Plast Surg 2004;57(3):282-2863) Fasshauer,M., Klein J., Blueher M., Paschke R., Adipokine: Moegliches Bindeglied zwischen Insulinresistenz und Adipositas.Dtsch Arztebl 2004;101:A3491-34954) Kaiserling E. Morphologische Alterationenen, in M.Foeldi, S.Kubik, Lehrbuch der Lymphologie, 5.Auflage, Urban & Fischer 20025) Lehnhardt, M. Homann,H.H., Druecke, . D., Palka, P., Steinau, H.U. Liposuktion–kein Problem? Majorkomplikationen und Todesfälle im deutschsprachigen Raum zwischen 1998 und 2002. LymphForsch 2004;8(2):74-786) Schmeller W., Meier-Vollrath I. Moderne Therapie des Lipödems: Kombination von konservativen und operativen Maßnahmen. LymphForsch 2004;8(1):22-267) Stroessenreuther R.H.K. Lipoedem und Cellulitis. Koeln, Viavital 20018) Weissleder H. , Schuchhardt C., Lipedema in H.Weissleder, C.Schuchhardt, ed. Lymphedema – Diagnosis and Therapy. Köln, Viavital 2001:247-265

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Lymphatic and venous function in lipoedema.

Harwood CA, Bull RH, Evans J, Mortimer PS.Department of Dermatology, St George's Hospital, London, U.K.Lipoedema is a common but infrequently recognized condition causing bilateral enlargement of the legs in women. Although generally considered to be the result of an abnormal deposition of subcutaneous fat with associated oedema, the precise mechanisms responsible for oedema formation have yet to be fully established. In order to evaluate the possible role of lymphatic or venous dysfunction in the pathogenesis of lipoedema, 10 patients were investigated by photoplethysmography (venous function) and quantitative lymphoscintigraphy (lymphatic function). The results were compared with those from patients with primary lymphoedema and those from healthy volunteers. The results demonstrated minor abnormalities of venous function in only two patients. One patient had moderately impaired lymphatic function in both legs and seven patients had a marginal degree of impairment in one or both legs. However, in none of these cases did the impairment attain the low levels seen in true lymphoedema. Lipoedema appears to be a distinct clinical entity best classified as a lipodystrophy rather than a direct consequence of any primary venous or lymphatic insufficiency.

Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Controlled Clinical Trial
PMID: 8745878 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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Lipedema Lipodema Lipoedema

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Lipedema, Lipoedema, Lipodema Yahoo Support Group

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Lipedema Xanga

Comprehensive blog site for brining together all information on lipedema to go with our Yahoo group Lipedema, Lipoedema, Lipodema.

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Lymphedema or Lipedema

Preliminary experience with a novel fluorescence lymphography using indocyanine green in patients with secondary lymphedema

Preliminary experience with a novel fluorescence lymphography using indocyanine green in patients with secondary lymphedema.

J Vasc Surg. 2007 Mar 27

Unno N,
Inuzuka K,
Suzuki M,
Yamamoto N,
Sagara D,
Nishiyama M,
Konno H.
Division of Vascular Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Shizuoka, Japan; Second Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of MedicineShizuoka, Japan.

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BACKGROUND: Lymphoscintigraphy has largely been performed to diagnose lymphedema. It is, however a time-consuming and expensive technique, which has not been covered by Japanese medical insurance since the year 2002. In this report we introduce a new imaging technique of fluorescent lymphography to diagnose lymphedema.

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METHODS: Fluorescence images of subcutaneous lymphatic drainage after subcutaneous injection of indocyanine green (ICG) at the foot were obtained using a newly developed near-infrared camera system. ICG fluorescent lymphography was performed in 12 patients with secondary lymphedema and 10 healthy volunteers. The 12 patients were diagnosed with secondary lymphedema according to the medical history and lymphoscintigram, of which 11 had a history of hysterectomy with extended lymph node dissection and local radiation therapy for uterine cancer. Lymphedema developed in one patient after femorotibial artery bypass for peripheral artery occlusive disease.

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RESULTS: Four abnormal fluorescent patterns of the lymph drainage were observed in lymphedema: dermal backflow (an abnormal filling of the lymph capillaries), extended fluorescent signal at the dorsum and plantar region of the foot, dilated lymph channels with proximal obliteration, and diffuse glittering of fluorescent signals with scattered twinkling of the dye. Continuous lymph channels from the injection site of the foot to the groin were observed along the medial aspect of thigh in healthy subjects.

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CONCLUSION: ICG fluorescence lymphography is safe, simple, and minimally invasive. The device is portable and easy to use. The technique may be useful in clinical practice to identify presence of lymphatic disorder.

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PMID: 17391894 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Exudative enteropathy in congenital lymphedema-lymphangiectasia syndrome

Exudative enteropathy in congenital lymphedema-lymphangiectasia syndrome


M. Heruth1, P. Müller1,3, L. Liebscher1, G. Kurze1, T. Richter2,3
1 Abt. Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, HELIOS Krankenhaus, Leisnig2 Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Städtisches Klinikum „St. Georg”, Leipzig3 Universitätsklinik und Poliklinik für Kinder und Jugendliche, Leipzig

Background: Congenital peripheral elephantiasiformic alterations are very rare in paediatric patients. In a patient with lymphangiectasia-lymphedema syndrome we demonstrate over a 8-year follow-up that not only cosmetic and social indications for surgical treatments but also internal care become important during the course.

Patient: We report on a boy with congenital lymphedemas of the extremities and the genital region, which were several times surgically treated. The patient became symptomatic firstly with tetanic cramps caused by malabsorption syndrome due to intestinal lymphangiectasia at the age of 6 years. Synopsis of clinical and laboratory findings and the patient's course are pointing to a mild Hennekam syndrome with still unknown aetiology.

Results: The boy developed adequately with permanent oral substitution of electrolytes and vitamins, protein-rich diet, supplementation of medium-chain fatty acids and compressing bandages. Infusions of human albumin to correct persistent hypalbuminemia as well as cytostatic treatment with cyclophosphamide as a formal trial were ineffective and are not advisable, therefore.

Key words: Hennekam syndrome - lymphangiectasia-lymphedema syndrome - exudative enteropathy

Thieme Connect

Spinal extradural arachnoid cysts associated with distichiasis and lymphedema.

Spinal extradural arachnoid cysts associated with distichiasis and lymphedema.

Yabuki S,
Kikuchi SI,
Ikegawa S.

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan.

Spinal extradural arachnoid cysts (SEDAC) are lesions communicating to the subarachnoid space of the spinal canal via a dural defect. SEDAC occupies intraspinal space and sometimes causes neurological disturbances. Although most reported cases are sporadic, several familial cases have been described, suggesting a genetic etiology. Here we report on a family with SEDAC inherited in an autosomal dominant mode. Detailed study showed that the family has the lymphedema-distichiasis syndrome. Among family members examined, a total of ten in two generations manifested all or some of the following features: SEDAC, distichiasis and lymphedema. Seven had spinal cysts, four had both SEDAC and distichiasis, and one had SEDAC distichiasis and lymphedema; three did not have SEDAC.

These findings, together with rarity of both distichiasis and lymphedema in the general population, support that all of the ten members were affected with one clinical entity, the lymphedema-distichiasis syndrome. The distribution of features illustrates the variable expressivity of clinical manifestations.

Although FOXC2 mutation analysis was not performed in our family, it is likely that SEDAC is a component manifestation of lymphedema-distichiasis syndrome and more consistent in our family than those reported. (c) 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

PMID: 17366583 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

See Also: LYMPHEDEMA-DISTICHIASIS SYNDROME

New Procedure May Help Prevent Arm Swelling in Breast Cancer Patients

Surgeon Develops Procedure to Prevent Arm Swelling in Breast Cancer Patients

16 March 2007

Keywords: LYMPHEDEMA LYMPH NODES ARM SWELLING AXILLARY REVERSE MAPPING (ARM) BREAST CANCER BIOPSY

Description A surgeon at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has developed a new procedure to prevent one of the most common side effects associated with breast cancer treatment - lymphedema or swelling of the arms due to faulty drainage of the lymph nodes.

Newswise - A surgeon at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has developed a new procedure to prevent one of the most common side effects associated with breast cancer treatment - lymphedema or swelling of the arms due to faulty drainage of the lymph nodes.

V. Suzanne Klimberg, M.D., director of the UAMS breast cancer program, led a study funded by the Tenenbaum Breast Cancer Research Foundation of breast cancer patients at risk for developing lymphedema. Her findings were published in the February issue of the Annals of Surgical Oncology, and she will present the study March 17 at the Society of Surgical Oncology 60th Annual Cancer Symposium in Washington, D.C.

"The removal and analysis of the lymph nodes under the arm remains the most important factor in determining the severity of disease in breast cancer patients," Klimberg said. "In the past, surgery to remove the lymph nodes and most of the fat and tissue in the armpit often resulted in complications, including lymphedema." Five percent to 50 percent of women undergoing surgical treatment for breast cancer have developed lymphedema, mainly dependent upon the extent of surgery.

At the ACRC, surgeons determined that the draining of the first lymph node, known as the sentinel lymph node, is capable of predicting if the cancer has spread to the remaining armpit lymph nodes, known as axillary lymph nodes. This is a less invasive surgery and reduces the likelihood of complications.

However, the lymph node system is at risk of disruption during either a sentinel lymph node biopsy or an axillary lymph node dissection, which often leads to swelling in the arm.

To prevent the arm swelling, Klimberg has developed the Axillary Reverse Mapping (ARM) procedure. The new technique evaluates the ways in which fluid drains through the lymph node system in the arm through the injection of blue dye. The dye is used to map the drainage of the arm.

"Mapping the drainage of the arm decreases the chances of unintended disruption of the lymph node system during surgery and reduces the risk of developing swelling in the arm," Klimberg said. "We are the first to study lymph node drainage in the arm and are now using the ARM procedure as standard procedure at UAMS."

Klimberg will soon begin conducting training seminars on the procedure throughout the country. The seminars will be sponsored by the global medical device company Ethicon, a branch of Johnson & Johnson.

Klimberg is chief of the Division of Breast Surgical Oncology at UAMS and a professor in the Departments of Surgery and Pathology. She also is director of the Breast Cancer Program at the UAMS' Arkansas Cancer Research Center as well as director of Breast Fellowship in Diseases of the Breast at UAMS.

Additional UAMS staff members involved in the published study are Kent Westbrook, M.D.; distinguished professor; Ronda Henry-Tillman, M.D., associate professor of surgery; Margaret Thompson, fellow; Soheila Korourian, M.D., associate professor of pathology; Keiva Bland, fellow; K. Jackman, surgery resident; and Laura Adkins, data manager.

UAMS is the state's only comprehensive academic health center, with five colleges, a graduate school, a medical center, six centers of excellence and a statewide network of regional centers. UAMS has about 2,430 students and 715 medical residents. It is one of the state's largest public employers with about 9,400 employees, including nearly 1,000 physicians who provide medical care to patients at UAMS, Arkansas Children's Hospital, the VA Medical Center and UAMS' Area Health Education Centers throughout the state. UAMS and its affiliates have an economic impact in Arkansas of $5 billion a year. For more information, visit University of Arkansas Medical School

Regulation of Lymphatic Capillary Regeneration by Interstitial Flow in Skin.

Regulation of Lymphatic Capillary Regeneration by Interstitial Flow in Skin.

Goldman J,
Conley KA,
Raehl A,
Bondy DM,
Pytowski B,
Swartz MA,
Rutkowski JM,
Jaroch DB,
Ongstad EL.
Biomedical Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Michigan, United States.

* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: jgoldman@mtu.edu

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Decreased interstitial flow (IF) in secondary lymphedema is coincident with poor physiological lymphatic regeneration. However, both the existence and direction of causality between IF and lymphangiogenesis remain unclear. This is primarily because the role of IF and its importance relative to the action of the pro-lymphangiogenic growth factor VEGF-C (which signals primarily through its receptor VEGFR-3) are poorly understood. To clarify this, we explored the cooperative roles of VEGFR-3 and IF in a mouse model of lymphangiogenesis in regenerating skin. Specifically, a region of lymphangiogenesis was created by substituting a portion of mouse tail skin with a collagen gel within which lymphatic capillaries completely regenerate over a period of 60 days. The relative importance of IF and VEGF-C signaling were evaluated by either inhibiting VEGFR-3 signaling with antagonistic antibodies or by reducing IF. In some cases, VEGF-C signaling was then increased with exogenous protein. In order to clarify the role of IF, the distribution of endogenous matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and VEGF-C within the regenerating region were determined. It was found that inhibition of either VEGFR-3 or IF suppressed endogenous lymphangiogenesis. Reduction of IF was found to decrease lymphatic migration and transport of endogenous MMP and VEGF-C through the regenerating region. Therapeutic VEGF-C administration restored lymphangiogenesis following inhibition of VEGFR-3 but did not increase lymphangiogenesis following inhibition of IF. These results identify IF as an important regulator of the pro-lymphangiogenic action of VEGF-C. Key words: VEGFR-3, endothelial , lymphangiogenesis, Interstitial Flow.

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