 | | | | Medical Health Encyclopedia | |
Lymphatic obstruction
Definition:
Lymphatic obstruction involves blockage of the lymph vessels, which drain fluid from tissues throughout the body and allow immune cells to travel where they are needed. Text Continues Below
Alternative Names:
Lymphedema Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
There are many causes of lymphatic obstruction, which is also known as lymphedema (swelling of the lymph passages). These include certain infections (for example, chronic cellulitis or parasitic infections such as filariasis), trauma, tumors, certain surgeries, and radiation therapy. In addition, there are rare forms of congenital (present from birth) lymphedema, which probably result from abnormalities in the development of the lymphatic vessels. In Western societies, one of the most common causes of lymphedema is mastectomy with axillary dissection (removal of the breast and underarm lymph tissue for breast cancer). This can cause lymphedema of the arm in 10-15% of patients. This occurs because the lymphatic drainage of the arm passes through the axilla (armpit), and tissue in the axilla has been removed during mastectomy. Recurrent cellulitis, or infection of the skin, can damage lymphatic vessels and lead to lymphedema of the affected area. This is more commonly seen in obese patients.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. | |
|
.gif)
