What is Lymphoedema?
Lymphoedema is swelling of the tissues because of inadequate drainage of tissue fluid by the lymphatic system. It is caused by removal of lymph nodes and lymph vessels or damage to these structures by radiotherapy or cancer itself.
The symptoms are abnormal permanent swelling usually of an arm or a leg depending on whether lymph nodes in the groin or armpit are affected. The disabling effects relate to the heaviness and discomfort from the swollen limb and the extra care that the limb may require either to reduce the swelling or to treat or prevent skin infection, which occurs easily. Difficulties may range from mild but noticeable swelling of one limb, which causes embarrassment but minimal disability to a heavy swollen, stiff and painful limb. In the case of an arm this may make dressing, washing, picking things up and doing up buttons difficult. In rare but severe cases there may be chronic skin break down and infection. This may lead to a smelly wound, which is difficult to control and results in severe disability and social isolation in addition to the obvious difficulties with mobilisation (for example when the affected limb is a leg) or self care (for example when the affected limb is an arm). Common cancers where this may occur include breast (the arm is affected) gynaecological cancers, prostate cancer and melanoma where typically the leg is affected. Lymphoedema may develop years after primary treatment is complete.
