Question 1

a family member was diagnosed with "capillary leak syndrome" thru mayo clinic- what is that? how does one get it ? can they do much to help?

Accepted Answer

Genetic, very rare.: Clarkson's disease is what it is called. It is a very rare genetic mutation. It causes episodes of fluid leaking out of the blood vessels into the tissue. This can lead to low blood pressure, passing out or damage to organs from the low bp, even death. Need to see a specialist in this!

https://en.Wikipedia.Org/wiki/capillary_leak_syndrome

http://www.Ncbi.Nlm.Nih.Gov/pmc/articles/pmc2947962/.

Question 2

how common is  lymphedema?

Accepted Answer

Unpredictable: Most people do not suffer long term lymph edema with elective surgery - unless the lymphatic system is already compromised before surgery.  Lymph edema is more common when you have soft tissue problems such as crush injury, infection, cancer invasion, radiation or other complication involving host metabolic dysfunction.

Question 3

who is at risk for lymphedema?

Accepted Answer

Surgery+/-Radiation: Anything that disrupts the lymphatic microcirculation of an extremity can cause lymphedema. The most common cause is the surgical removal of lymph nodes (ln) to stage certain cancers (breast and melanoma, most commonly).  Breast cancer treatment often includes radiation therapy; if the lns are included in the radiation field, the risks increase.  Thankfully, rates are down due to new techniques.

Question 4

lymphedema bandages alternative?

Accepted Answer

Compression Pump: There are a couple of compression pump systems that are in use today approved by the fda for lymphedema.  All you need is an rx from your doctor to have a pump prescribed for you and the inflation bags fitted appropriately.

Question 5

how is lymphedema diagnosed in women?

Accepted Answer

Usually clinically: Most diagnoses are made clinically with signs of swelling.  Unfortunately, by that time, there is already fibrosis and changes are controllable but not reversible.  Phys ther often use tape measurements which can be very variable (location, tightness of tape, dominant vs non-dom arm).  Water displacement works well but cumbesome.  Bioimpedance is simple and reproducible but insurance won't pay.

Question 6

what is the definition or description of: lymphedema?

Accepted Answer

Swelling: The lymph channels work to return fluid from the lower extremities back towards the heart, and filter out bacteria.  If the lymph channels and not functioning appropriately swelling of the affected limb is most common presentation.  The swelling usually occurs during daily activities and improves with leg elevation.  In order to prevent swellingUse a compression garment during daily activities

Question 7

can lymphedema be fatal?

Accepted Answer

Rarely: It is impossible to give a specific answer. It would depend on what other conditions coexist with the lymphedema. Severe lymphedema could coexist with cardiovascular disease, diabetes etc. In severe caeses, ulceration , infection can occur and lymphedema can become permanent.

Question 8

what exactly is primary lymphedema?

Accepted Answer

Hereditary: Lymphedema usuallly occurs secondary to trauma to the lymphatic system from surgical removal of lymph nodes.  Primary lymphedema occurs due to inherited conditions that affect the development of lymph nodes or the valves within the lymphatics.  These diseases are very rare.

Question 9

will underarmour be using for lymphedema stage 1?

Accepted Answer

Not quite effective: Underarmour are nice athletic garment that provide some compression. They dont quite provide enough compression to control even early lymphedema . They would be of some help but they would not be of sufficient compression to be completely effective.  Good thinking though.

Question 10

can there be any cures on the horizon for lymphedema?

Accepted Answer

Too many causes: Lymphedema occurs when there is a compromise of the lymphatic circulation.  This  third circulation (arteries, veins) carries things too thick to be safely carried in arteries and veins like bacteria eaten by white cells and digested food.  It is propelled along by normal body movements but contains a thick material called lymph.  Blockage causes it to back up causing  soft tissues/skin deformity.

Get Virtual Care

For Businesses

About Us

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Doctor answers about:

Lymphedema capillary leak

A member asked:

A family member was diagnosed with "capillary leak syndrome" thru mayo clinic- what is that? how does one get it ? can they do much to help?

A member asked:

How common is lymphedema?

A member asked:

Who is at risk for lymphedema?

A member asked:

Lymphedema bandages alternative?

A member asked:

How is lymphedema diagnosed in women?

A member asked:

What is the definition or description of: lymphedema?

A member asked:

Can lymphedema be fatal?

A member asked:

What exactly is primary lymphedema?

A member asked:

Will underarmour be using for lymphedema stage 1?

A member asked:

Can there be any cures on the horizon for lymphedema?

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Telemedicine

Primary Care

Manage Your Conditions

Women's Health

Children's Health

Men's Health

Senior Health

Wellness, Prevention & Lifestyle

Sexual Health

Mental & Behavioral Health

Travel Medicine

Urgent Care

Didn't find what you're looking for?

More of what we treat

Allergies

Antibiotics

Asthma

High Blood Pressure

Prescriptions

Type 2 Diabetes

For Businesses

Company

Health Content

Join Us

Download HealthTap

Questions?