What is lymphedema?

What is lymphedema?

• A. Blockage of lymphatic vessels causing tissue swelling
• B. Buildup of cholesterol in arteries
• C. Swelling due to venous insufficiency
• D. Inflammation of lymph nodes

Answer: (A)

Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system cannot drain interstitial fluid effectively, often due to blockage or damage of lymphatic vessels or nodes. This impaired drainage lets lymph accumulate in tissues, leading to persistent swelling, typically in a limb. It differs from cholesterol buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis), which is about arterial plaques reducing blood flow, and from edema caused by venous insufficiency, where high venous pressure and valve failure drive fluid into tissue. Inflammation of lymph nodes (lymphadenitis) is a separate process involving swollen, inflamed nodes rather than a global failure of lymphatic drainage causing tissue swelling. Lymphedema can be primary (congenital) or secondary (from surgery, radiation, or infection).

Lymphedema occurs when the lymphatic system cannot drain interstitial fluid effectively, often due to blockage or damage of lymphatic vessels or nodes. This impaired drainage lets lymph accumulate in tissues, leading to persistent swelling, typically in a limb. It differs from cholesterol buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis), which is about arterial plaques reducing blood flow, and from edema caused by venous insufficiency, where high venous pressure and valve failure drive fluid into tissue. Inflammation of lymph nodes (lymphadenitis) is a separate process involving swollen, inflamed nodes rather than a global failure of lymphatic drainage causing tissue swelling. Lymphedema can be primary (congenital) or secondary (from surgery, radiation, or infection).