Lymphedema: Anatomy, Pathophysiology, Evaluation, and Treatment

Abstract Lymphedema is a chronic disease caused by congenital abnormalities, traumatic injury to the lymphatic system, infection and/or obesity. Patients experience swelling, pain, recurrent infections and impaired quality of life. Treatment is often palliative in nature, including compression garments and physical therapy. Newer surgical treatment options include lymphovenous bypass and vascularized lymph node transplant.