Cause Of Lymphedema Research Articles

The clinical characteristics of lower extremity lymphedema in 440 patients

BackgroundLower extremity lymphedema is frequently encountered in the vascular clinic. Established dogma purports that cancer is the most common cause of lower extremity lymphedema in Western countries, whereas chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is often overlooked as a potential cause. Moreover, lymphedema is typically ascribed to a single cause, yet multiple causes can coexist. MethodsA 3-year retrospective analysis was conducted of demographic and clinical characteristics of 440 eligible patients with lower extremity lymphedema who presented for lymphatic physiotherapy to a university medical center's cancer-based physical therapy department. ResultsThe four most common causes of lower extremity lymphedema were CVI (phlebolymphedema; 41.8%), cancer-related lymphedema (33.9%), primary lymphedema (12.5%), and lipedema with secondary lymphedema (11.8%). The collective cohort was more likely to be female (71.1%; P < .0001), to be white (78.9%; P < .0001), to demonstrate bilateral distribution (74.5%; P < .0001), and to have involvement of the left leg (bilateral, 69.1% [P < .0001]; unilateral, 58.9% [P = .0588]). Morbid obesity was pervasive (mean weight and body mass index, 115.8 kg and 40.2 kg/m2, respectively) and significantly correlated with a higher International Society of Lymphology lymphedema stage (stage III mean weight and body mass index, 169.2 kg and 57.3 kg/m2, respectively, vs stage II, 107.8 kg and 37.5 kg/m2, respectively; P < .0001). Approximately one in three (35.7%) of the population sustained one or more episodes of cellulitis, but patients with stage III lymphedema had roughly twice the rate of soft tissue infection as patients with stage II, 61.7% vs 31.8%, respectively (P < .001). Multifactorial lymphedema was present in 25%. Approximately half of the patients with lipedema with secondary lymphedema (48.1%) or primary lymphedema (45.5%) had a superimposed cause of swelling that was usually CVI. Total knee arthroplasty was the most common cause of noncancer surgery-mediated worsening of pre-existing lymphedema. ConclusionsIn a large cohort of patients treated in a cancer-affiliated physical therapy department, CVI (phlebolymphedema), not cancer, was the predominant cause of lower extremity lymphedema. One in four patients had more than one cause of lymphedema. Notable clinical characteristics included a proclivity for female patients, bilateral distribution, left limb, cellulitis, and nearly universal morbid obesity.

Molecular pathways involved in lymphedema: Hydroxytyrosol as a candidate natural compound for treating the effects of lymph accumulation

Lymphedema is a chronic accumulation of interstitial fluid due to inefficient lymph drainage. Major causes of lymphedema are malformations of lymphatic vessels, trauma, toxic damage and surgery. The swelling typically affects the limbs. Lymphedema may be primary, caused by genetic mutations and relatively rare, or secondary (acquired), due to external causes such as infections or surgery. Fluid accumulation induces pathological changes: activation of the inflammatory cascade, immune cell infiltration, tissue fibrosis, adipose accumulation. We focused on the inflammatory phenotype mediated by leukotriene B4, a lipid mediator of the inflammatory pathway, and the potential therapeutic effect of hydroxytyrosol.We conducted an electronic search in PubMed using “lymphedema”, “lymphedema pathway”, “hydroxytyrosol” as keywords. We found that lymphedema deregulates at least six molecular pathways and that hydroxytyrosol, a compound with antioxidant activity, can improve endothelial dysfunction, hemostatic and lipid profiles, and decrease oxidative stress and inflammation through inhibition of leukotriene B4 activity.This review is the first to highlight the possibility of using hydroxytyrosol to treat the secondary effects of lymphedema, especially inflammation. The possible effects of hydroxytyrosol on lymphedema should be tested in vitro and in vivo to find the best way to treat patients with lymphedema in order to improve their health status.

Abstract ES11-3: Microsurgical treatment of lymphedema

Abstract Lymphedema is a chronic, debilitating condition that causes physical and psychological morbidity, affecting up to 250 million people worldwide. In the United States and other developed countries, cancer and its treatments are the most common causes of lymphedema. Lymphedema can evolve into progressive swelling, fibrosis, functional deficits, and chronic infections, thus adversely affecting quality of life and health care costs. Unfortunately, no definitive treatment for lymphedema currently exists. The advents of microsurgery, and more recently supermicrosurgery, have had a major impact on the evolution of these physiologic procedures, which have gained popularity to help reduce the severity of lymphedema. Lymphatic Bypass LVB are typically performed through incisions 2-3 cm in length and the number of bypasses can vary depending on a patient as well as a surgeon. In our prospective study in 100 consecutive patients, we have found that LVB can be effective in reducing lymphedema severity, particularly in patients with early-stage, upper-extremity lymphedema with reasonable amount of intact functioning lymphatic vessels and minimal tissue fibrosis. One recent technological advance in lymphovenous bypass procedures is the use of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence lymphangiography to map lymphatic vessels. ICG fluorescence lymphangiography enables surgeons to locate and make incisions precisely over functional lymphatic vessels for the lymphovenous bypass, substantially reducing operating time and may significantly improve the outcomes of LVB surgeries. Vascularized Lymph Node Transfer This procedure aims to bring vascularized tissue and healthy lymph nodes into sites affected by lymphedema. A flap containing lymph nodes can then be harvested typically from either the cervical region, axillary region or from the inguinal region. One proposed theory for mechanism is that lymphangiogenesis occur via growth factors produced by the transplanted lymph nodes and thereby bridging lymphatic pathways. A second proposed theory of mechanism is that vascularized lymph node transfer act as a lymphatic pump. Recently, simultaneous breast reconstruction using the transverse lower abdominal flap harvested with inguinal lymph nodes have gained popularity as a convenient option for lymphedematous women who desire reconstruction after mastectomy. Conclusions Currently there is no cure for lymphedema. Worldwide interest in using microsurgical procedures to treat lymphedema is gaining momentum. However, there is no consensus on the indications for which procedure to perform, when to intervene, or how to comparatively grade outcomes. We need further research and better understanding of lymphatic anatomy and lymphedema pathophysiology. In addition, more prospective and controlled studies are needed to objectively evaluate the outcomes of various treatment methods. Citation Format: Chang D. Microsurgical treatment of lymphedema [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr ES11-3.

Podoconiosis: an important but forgotten cause of non-filarial lymphoedema

Podoconiosis is a preventable, non-infectious and non-communicable cause of lymphoedema leading to chronic swelling of the foot and lower leg. Most prevalent in Africa, Central America and India, it is caused by long-term exposure to irritant red volcanic clay soil. Risk factors for disease are related to the absence or inadequacy of footwear. However, not all those at risk develop the disease, indicating that both genetic and environmental predispositions contribute to disease development. Symptoms of podoconiosis include asymmetrical limb swelling with associated itching, burning sensation and lymphatic ooze. Late stages are characterised by irreversible swelling and joint fixation. Due to the disfiguring nature of the disease, those affected often experience social stigmatisation. Associated economic losses result from reduced productivity and absenteeism. The disease must be differentiated from conditions such as filarial lymphoedema and congenital lymphoedema, which can have similar presentations, such that appropriate therapy can be implemented. Primary management of podoconiosis is prevention which involves the regular use footwear such as shoes and education of the disease. In the early stages of podoconiosis, compression therapy and limb elevation delays clinical progression in affected individuals. In later stages, changes are irreversible; however, additional therapy can include surgical intervention and limb elevation for symptom control. Psychosocial care is also needed to address the mental distress associated with the disease. Despite the preventable nature of podoconiosis, it remains prevalent in developing countries, necessitating further investment of resources.

A progressed case of Stewart–Treves syndrome in a patient with chronic idiopathic lymphedema in the lower extremity

Angiosarcomas are uncommon malignant tumors that arise from vascular endothelial cells with poor prognosis. Stewart–Treves syndrome (STS) is a type of cutaneous angiosarcoma that develops in chronic lymphedema. Although the majority of lymphangiosarcomas arise from areas of lymphedema as a consequence of lymph node dissection in radical mastectomy, it has also occurred in other causes of lymphedema. In the pathophysiology of lymphangiosarcoma, impairment of the local immune response and induced angiogenesis are emphasized. A 69-year-old male patient with a previous diagnosis of chronic lymphedema in his left lower limb presented with STS and widespread metastases. The patient refused the treatment for lymphedema and ignored the lesion due to its innocuous appearance. In addition, during the presentation, he had Stage 4 disease and, therefore, he was not a candidate for curative operative treatment. Early tumor resection or limb amputation has the best outcomes in the treatment.

Is axillary web syndrome a risk factor for lymphedema?

Several risk factors have been associated with upper extremity lymphedema after breast cancer treatment (LABC). These include mastectomy, axillary lymph node dissection (ALND), number of dissected and metastatic lymph nodes (NDN and NMN, respectively) and obesity. Despite the ongoing advances in breast cancer treatment, the need to study the secondary causes of lymphedema still exists due to its severe comorbidities. This study aims to identify risk factors for LABC, in particular axillary web syndrome (AWS). We conducted a prospective longitudinal study of women with unilateral breast cancer treated at our institution between 2011 and 2015. Lymphedema was diagnosed when there was a rise in upper limb circumference > 2 cm in comparison to the contralateral limb. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize and describe the data of independent variables. Survival analysis was used to analyse the time interval (days) between surgery and lymphedema diagnosis. We used the Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank test to compare survival curves between groups and Cox regression (proportional hazards regression) to analyze the effect of several risk factors on lymphedema diagnosis. An alpha of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. All statistical analyses were conducted using the Statistical Software SPSS version 24. Two hundred and thirty-one patients were included with a mean age of 56 years. Among patients, 18.6% had lymphedema, 65% underwent ALND, 26.4% had AWS and 13% had seroma. AWS was not associated with lymphedema ( P = 0.501). Variables significantly associated with lymphedema were Mastectomy (HR = 3.752; 95% CI: 1.156–12.177), ALND (HR = 0.025; 95% CI: 0.02–0.368), higher NDN (HR = 1.054; 95% CI: 1.019–1.091) and higher NMN (HR = 1.063; 95% CI: 1.014–1.115). Based on our results, AWS was not a risk factor for LABC. Unexpectedly, nor was ALND. This was probably due to the low NDN in many ALND, since a higher NDN did constitute a risk factor for LABC.

Primary lymphedema and other lymphatic anomalies are associated with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome

BackgroundLymphedema is an abnormal accumulation of interstitial fluid within the tissues. Primary lymphedema is caused by aberrant lymphangiogenesis and it has been historically classified based on age at presentation. Although most cases are sporadic, primary lymphedema may be familial or present in association with chromosomal abnormalities and syndromic disorders. To the best of our knowledge, primary lymphedema has never been described in patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Methods and resultsWe identified 4 patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and primary lymphedema via our International 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome Consortium. All patients underwent comprehensive clinical, laboratory and imaging assessments to rule out other causes of lymphedema. All patients had de novo typical deletions and family histories were negative for lymphedema. ConclusionsWe report the novel association of primary lymphedema with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Importantly, animal models demonstrated Tbx1 playing a critical role in lymphangiogenesis by reducing Vegfr3 expression in lymphatic endothelial cells. Moreover, the VEGFR3 pathway is essential for lymphangiogenesis with mutations identified in hereditary primary lymphedema. Accordingly, our findings provide a new insight into understanding cellular mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis disorders.

A Literature Review of Using Compression Techniques for the Management of Lymphoedema

Background: Lymphoedema is generally defined as the formation of fluid or fluid retention causing swelling. It can be divided into primary or secondary lymphoedema based on its cause, as well as into three stages based on its pathology and severity of occurrence. Breast cancer among women is considered as the main cause of lymphoedema, but the condition occurs in both men and women.Objective: To provide a comprehensive, up-to-date literature review of lymphoedema management and the effect of compression therapy on lymphoedema reduction.Methods: A literature review was conducted utilizing the following databases PubMed, Medline, PEDro, and Science Direct.Results: The current evidence supports the use of compression therapy for lymphoedema reduction, but its mechanism of action is still not well understood.Conclusion: Although many studies recommend the use of compression therapy as an effective method for treating lymphoedema in both stages, the optimum treatment methods for lymphoedema are still unknown.

Mapping the geographical distribution of podoconiosis in Cameroon using parasitological, serological, and clinical evidence to exclude other causes of lymphedema.

BackgroundPodoconiosis is a non-filarial elephantiasis, which causes massive swelling of the lower legs. It was identified as a neglected tropical disease by WHO in 2011. Understanding of the geographical distribution of the disease is incomplete. As part of a global mapping of podoconiosis, this study was conducted in Cameroon to map the distribution of the disease. This mapping work will help to generate data on the geographical distribution of podoconiosis in Cameroon and contribute to the global atlas of podoconiosis.MethodsWe used a multi‐stage sampling design with stratification of the country by environmental risk of podoconiosis. We sampled 76 villages from 40 health districts from the ten Regions of Cameroon. All individuals of 15-years old or older in the village were surveyed house-to-house and screened for lymphedema. A clinical algorithm was used to reliably diagnose podoconiosis, excluding filarial-associated lymphedema. Individuals with lymphoedema were tested for circulating Wuchereria bancrofti antigen and specific IgG4 using the Alere Filariasis Test Strips (FTS) test and the Standard Diagnostics (SD) BIOLINE lymphatic filariasis IgG4 test (Wb123) respectively, in addition to thick blood films. Presence of DNA specific to W. bancrofti was checked on night blood using a qPCR technique.Principal findingsOverall, 10,178 individuals from 4,603 households participated in the study. In total, 83 individuals with lymphedema were identified. Of the 83 individuals with lymphedema, two were found to be FTS positive and all were negative using the Wb123 test. No microfilaria of W. bancrofti were found in the night blood of any individual with clinical lymphedema. None were found to be positive for W. bancrofti using qPCR. Of the two FTS positive cases, one was positive for Mansonella perstans DNA, while the other harbored Loa loa microfilaria. Overall, 52 people with podoconiosis were identified after applying the clinical algorithm. The overall prevalence of podoconiosis was found to be 0.5% (95% [confidence interval] CI; 0.4–0.7). At least one case of podoconiosis was found in every region of Cameroon except the two surveyed villages in Adamawa. Of the 40 health districts surveyed, 17 districts had no cases of podoconiosis; in 15 districts, mean prevalence was between 0.2% and 1.0%; and in the remaining eight, mean prevalence was between 1.2% and 2.7%.ConclusionsOur investigation has demonstrated low prevalence but almost nationwide distribution of podoconiosis in Cameroon. Designing a podoconiosis control program is a vital next step. A health system response to the burden of podoconiosis is important, through case surveillance and morbidity management services.

Qualitative research on risk factors of lymphedema for patients with breast cancer

Objective To deeply understand the risk factors of lymphedema for patients with breast cancer after surgery. Methods The phenomenological method was applied in this study. Semi-structured interview was used to collected data from 9 female breast cancer patients with lymphedema after surgery in our hospital from June to September 2016 for generic analysis. Results The risk factors of lymphedema could be categorized into four themes: (1)choice of treatment is the primary cause: axillary lymph node dissection; radiotherapy; chemotherapy; (2)not paying enough attention to lymphedema: lacking the knowledge of lymphedema; imbalance of physical activities for the affected limb; lacking awareness of exercise and protection of the affected limb. Conclusions Axillary lymph node dissection after radical surgery for patients with breast cancer is the primary cause of lymphedema, and paying not enough attention is an important factor, especially lacking the consciousness of prevention, so the nurses should emphasize education about prevention of lymphedema after surgery for patients, to improve the consciousness of them to reduce the occurrence of lymphedema and its influence on their quality of life. Key words: Breast neoplasms; Lymphedema; Risk factors; qualitative research

Measuring the physical and economic impact of filarial lymphoedema in Chikwawa district, Malawi: a case-control study

BackgroundLymphatic filariasis (LF) is one of the primary causes of lymphoedema in sub-Saharan Africa, and has a significant impact on the quality of life (QoL) of those affected. In this paper we assess the relative impact of lymphoedema on mobility and income in Chikwawa district, Malawi.MethodsA random sample of 31 people with lymphoedema and 31 matched controls completed a QoL questionnaire from which both an overall and a mobility-specific score were calculated. Two mobility tests were undertaken, namely the 10 m walking test [10MWT] and timed up and go [TUG] test, and a subset of 10 cases-control pairs wore GPS data loggers for 3 weeks to measure their mobility in a more natural setting. Retrospective economic data was collected from all 31 case-control pairs, and each participant undertaking the GPS activity recorded daily earnings and health expenditure throughout the observation period.ResultsCases had a significantly poorer overall QoL (cases = 32.2, controls = 6.0, P < 0.01) and mobility-specific (cases = 43.1, controls = 7.4, P < 0.01) scores in comparison to controls. Cases were also significantly slower (P < 0.01) at completing the timed mobility tests, e.g. mean 10MWT speed of 0.83 m/s in comparison to 1.10 m/s for controls. An inconsistent relationship was observed between mobility-specific QoL scores and the timed test results for cases (10MWT correlation = −0.06, 95% CI = (−0.41, 0.30)), indicating that their perceived disability differed from their measured disability, whereas the results were consistent for controls (10MWT correlation = −0.61, 95% CI = (−0.79, −0.34)). GPS summaries indicated that cases generally walk shorter distances at slower speeds than control, covering a smaller geographical area (median area by kernel smoothing: cases = 1.25 km2, controls = 2.10 km2, P = 0.16). Cases reported earning less than half that earned by controls per week (cases = $0.70, controls = $1.86, P = 0.064), with a smaller proportion of their earnings (16% vs 22%, P = 0.461) being spent on healthcare.ConclusionsThose affected by lymphoedema are at a clear disadvantage to their unaffected peers, experiencing a lower QoL as confirmed by both subjective and objective mobility measures, and lower income. This study also indicates that objective measures of mobility may be a useful supplement to self-assessed QoL questionnaires when assessing the future impact of lymphoedema management interventions.

Abstract 607: Modulating VEGFR3 Signaling by Epsins Regulates Lymphatic Dysfuntion in Diabetes

Background: Impaired lymphatic function in diabetes is a major cause of lymphedema and immune suppression. VEGFR3 signaling is a master regulator of lymphatic development; however, whether alteration of VEGFR3 signaling regulates lymphatic function in diabetes is unknown. We uncovered that loss of epsins in lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) increases VEGFR3 signaling by hindering VEGFR3 downregulation (Science Signaling, 2014). The goals for the present study were (1) to determine if hyperglycemia inhibits VEGFR3 signaling and impairs lymphangiogenesis, (2) identify critical molecular pathways that drive the upregulation of epsin, leading to enhanced degradation of VEGFR3 in diabetes, (3) to ascertain if elevated VEGFR3 signaling caused by epsin loss is crucial for restoring impaired lymphatic circulation in diabetes. Methods and Results: Using innovative near-infrared imaging and tail lymphedema models, we showed that epsin loss accelerates recovery from diabetic secondary lymphedema. We also found that hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress attenuates VEGFR3 signaling, delays diabetic secondary lymphedema resolution, however, elevates epsin expression in LECs. Mechanistically, using ChIP and luciferase reporter analyses, we discovered that hyperglycemia driven oxidative stress-induced Src activation stimulates AP1 activity, which in turn binds epsin promoter and upregulates epsin transcription. Consequently, heightened epsin expression in primary LECs isolated from diabetic mice suppresses VEGFR3 signaling and prohibits lymphangiogenesis by facilitating VEGFR3 downregulation. Conversely, epsin deficiency rescues high-glucose-induced VEGFR3 loss, amends defective lymphangiogenesis, and ameliorates diabetic secondary lymphedema. Conclusions: Epsin depletion promotes diabetic secondary lymphedema resolution by protecting VEGFR3 from oxidative stress-induced degradation, highlighting the therapeutic potential for targeted inhibition of epsins in the lymphatic endothelium as a treatment for lymphatic dysfunction in diabetes.

Lymphoscintigraphy in paediatric and adolescent patients

Lymphoscintigraphy has emerged as the diagnostic test of choice differentiating lymphoedema from other causes of extremity swelling in adult and paediatric patients with a high clinical suspicion of impaired lymphatic function. In paediatric patients who present with lymphoedema, primary lymphoedema accounts for the majority of the cases, with prevalence estimates that approximate 1.15/100,000 persons aged less than 20 years. Other causes of lymphoedema include combined lymphatic vascular diseases and to a lesser extent, secondary lymphoedema due to surgical and non-surgical trauma to the lymphatic system. Lymphoscintigraphy plays an important role in the direction of clinical management in these patients with lymphoedema and proper recognition of lymphoscintigraphic patterns in this population is essential. Sentinel lymph node localization and biopsy has become standard of care in adult patients with melanoma and breast cancer. It is recommended in paediatric and adolescent patients with melanoma, peripheral rhabdomyosarcomas, and several specific soft tissue sarcomas.

Measuring elimination of podoconiosis, endemicity classifications, case definition and targets: an international Delphi exercise.

BackgroundPodoconiosis is one of the major causes of lymphoedema in the tropics. Nonetheless, currently there are no endemicity classifications or elimination targets to monitor the effects of interventions. This study aimed at establishing case definitions and indicators that can be used to assess endemicity, elimination and clinical outcomes of podoconiosis.MethodsThis paper describes the result of a Delphi technique used among 28 experts. A questionnaire outlining possible case definitions, endemicity classifications, elimination targets and clinical outcomes was developed. The questionnaire was distributed to experts working on podoconiosis and other neglected tropical diseases in two rounds. The experts rated the importance of case definitions, endemic classifications, elimination targets and the clinical outcome measures. Median and mode were used to describe the central tendency of expert responses. The coefficient of variation was used to describe the dispersals of expert responses.ResultsConsensus on definitions and indicators for assessing endemicity, elimination and clinical outcomes of podoconiosis directed at policy makers and health workers was achieved following the two rounds of Delphi approach among the experts.ConclusionsBased on the two Delphi rounds we discuss potential indicators and endemicity classification of this disabling disease, and the ongoing challenges to its elimination in countries with the highest prevalence. Consensus will help to increase effectiveness of podoconiosis elimination efforts and ensure comparability of outcome data.

Epidemiology and individual, household and geographical risk factors of podoconiosis in Ethiopia: results from the first nationwide mapping.

Although podoconiosis is one of the major causes of tropical lymphoedema and is endemic in Ethiopia its epidemiology and risk factors are poorly understood. Individual-level data for 129,959 individuals from 1,315 communities in 659 woreda (districts) were collected for a nationwide integrated survey of lymphatic filariasis and podoconiosis. Blood samples were tested for circulating Wuchereria bancrofti antigen using immunochromatographic card tests. A clinical algorithm was used to reach a diagnosis of podoconiosis by excluding other potential causes of lymphoedema of the lower limb. Bayesian multilevel models were used to identify individual and environmental risk factors. Overall, 8,110 of 129,959 (6.2%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.1–6.4%) surveyed individuals were identified with lymphoedema of the lower limb, of whom 5,253 (4.0%, 95% CI 3.9–4.1%) were confirmed to be podoconiosis cases. In multivariable analysis, being female, older, unmarried, washing the feet less frequently than daily, and being semiskilled or unemployed were significantly associated with increased risk of podoconiosis. Attending formal education and living in a house with a covered floor were associated with decreased risk of podoconiosis. Podoconiosis exhibits marked geographical variation across Ethiopia, with variation in risk associated with variation in rainfall, enhanced vegetation index, and altitude.

Integrated mapping of lymphatic filariasis and podoconiosis: lessons learnt from Ethiopia.

BackgroundThe World Health Organization (WHO), international donors and partners have emphasized the importance of integrated control of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Integrated mapping of NTDs is a first step for integrated planning of programmes, proper resource allocation and monitoring progress of control. Integrated mapping has several advantages over disease specific mapping by reducing costs and enabling co-endemic areas to be more precisely identified. We designed and conducted integrated mapping of lymphatic filariasis (LF) and podoconiosis in Ethiopia; here we present the methods, challenges and lessons learnt.MethodsIntegrated mapping of 1315 communities across Ethiopia was accomplished within three months. Within these communities, 129,959 individuals provided blood samples that were tested for circulating Wuchereria bancrofti antigen using immunochromatographic card tests (ICT). Wb123 antibody tests were used to further establish exposure to LF in areas where at least one ICT positive individual was detected. A clinical algorithm was used to reliably diagnose podoconiosis by excluding other potential causes of lymphoedema of the lower limb.ResultsA total of 8110 individuals with leg swelling were interviewed and underwent physical examination. Smartphones linked to a central database were used to collect data, which facilitated real-time data entry and reduced costs compared to traditional paper-based data collection approach; their inbuilt Geographic Positioning System (GPS) function enabled simultaneous capture of geographical coordinates. The integrated approach led to efficient use of resources and rapid mapping of an enormous geographical area and was well received by survey staff and collaborators. Mobile based technology can be used for such large scale studies in resource constrained settings such as Ethiopia, with minimal challenges.ConclusionsThis was the first integrated mapping of podoconiosis and LF globally. Integrated mapping of podoconiosis and LF is feasible and, if properly planned, can be quickly achieved at nationwide scale.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1756-3305-7-397) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Operative Treatment of Peripheral Lymphedema

The purpose of this study was to quantify the efficacy and safety of microsurgery for lymphedema through a systematic meta-analysis, which has not been described before. A literature search was conducted to identify all articles involving microsurgical treatment of lymphedema. Studies meeting criteria for inclusion were rated on methodologic quality based on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons levels of evidence. Demographic information, cause of lymphedema, and surgical technique were recorded. Quantitative change in lymphedema and perioperative complications were noted. Twenty-seven studies were included, with 24 offering level IV evidence and three offering level III evidence. Lymphovenous shunt procedures were performed in 22 studies and lymph node transplantation was performed in five. Excess circumference was reduced by 48.8 ± 6.0 percent, and absolute circumference was reduced by 3.31 ± 0.73 cm. Studies reporting change in volume demonstrated reduction in excess volume by 56.6 ± 9.1 percent, and absolute volume was reduced by 23.6 ± 2.1 percent. The incidence of no improvement in lymphedema postoperatively was 11.8 percent, and 91.2 percent of patients reported subjective improvement. Approximately 64.8 percent of patients discontinued compression garments at follow-up. Complications included operative-site infection (4.7 percent), lymphorrhea (7.7 percent), reexploration for flap congestion (2.7 percent), and additional procedures (22.6 percent). Operative interventions for peripheral lymphedema appear to provide consistent quantitative improvements postoperatively, with a relatively wide safety margin. Lymph node transplantation may provide better outcomes compared with lymphovenous shunt, but well-designed head-to-head comparisons are needed to evaluate this further. Therapeutic, III.

Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma, Bilateral Lower Extremity Lymphedema, and Ulcerated Inguinal Lymph Node

Lymphedema (LE) is a chronic medical condition characterized by lymphatic fluid retention, resulting in tissue swelling. There are two general classifications of LE; primary and secondary which are based on two mechanisms; lymphatic obstruction and lymphatic interruption. The most common cause of LE in the developing world is secondary to an infection known as filariasis. Cancer including Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas; and its treatment are some causes of secondary LE. LE also could maintain the persistence of an occult localization of lymphoma. This case illustration describes a female, 57 year-old with stage II lymphedema of both legs, bilateral inguinal lymphadenopathies that were biopsied. The filarial blood examination was negative. Biopsies showed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

The world's first mobile lymphoedema unit: Wales leads the way.

The world's first mobile lymphoedema unit: Wales leads the way.

Assessment of skin barrier function in podoconiosis: measurement of stratum corneum hydration and transepidermal water loss

Podoconiosis is a common cause of lymphoedema in barefoot workers in Ethiopia and other countries. It has severe consequences for patients' physical function, quality of life and economic status. To investigate stratum corneum (SC) hydration and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) in patients with podoconiosis compared with controls. In total, 55 patients and 20 controls were recruited. For each study subject, SC and TEWL measurements were taken, along with foot and lower leg circumferences. Measurements were compared between the patient and control groups. Foot circumferences tended to be higher in patients with podoconiosis, with the mean foot:leg circumference ratio being 1·19 (95% confidence interval 1·11-1·28) times that for controls (P = 0·001). There was no detectable difference between patients and controls in TEWL values (P > 0·05); however, SC hydration was significantly lower in patients vs. controls for the foot (P = 0·004) and lower leg (P = 0·046) sites. Patients with podoconiosis have significantly lower SC hydration in the skin of their lower legs and feet than controls, which may lead to cracking and splitting, and increased risk of lymphoedema and infection.