What are the causes of lymphedema? There are numerous classifications for the etiology of lymphedema, and considering both the cause and clinical type, it is mainly divided into two major categories: primary lymphedema and secondary lymphedema. Primary lymphedema is mostly due to congenital developmental abnormalities such as lymphatic dilation, valve dysfunction or absence. According to lymphangiography, primary lymphedema can be classified as follows: ① Lymphatic hypoplasia with absence of subcutaneous lymphatics; ② Lymphatic dysplasia with small and few lymph nodes and lymph vessels; ③ Lymphatic hyperplasia with large and numerous lymph nodes and lymph vessels, sometimes with tortuosity and varicosity. Lymphatic hypoplasia is extremely rare and commonly seen in congenital lymphedema. Dysplasia is the most common type. Simple and hereditary lymphedema both belong to the congenital category. Early-onset lymphedema is more common in adolescent females or young women, with symptoms worsening during menstruation, leading to speculation that the cause may be related to endocrine disorders, accounting for 85%-90% of primary lymphedema. Onset after age 35 is referred to as late-onset lymphedema. Secondary lymphedema is mostly caused by lymphatic obstruction. The most common types domestically are filariasis-induced lymphedema and streptococcal infection-induced lymphedema. Upper limb lymphedema after radical mastectomy is also not uncommon.
Although Herophilos and Aristotle had already observed the lymphatic system in the third and fourth centuries, and modern times have seen extensive experimental research, the exact pathogenesis of lymphedema remains unclear.
Classification of lymphedema:
(I) Primary lymphedema
1. Congenital: Simple
2. Hereditary
3. Early-onset
(II) Secondary lymphedema
1. Infectious: Parasites, bacteria, fungi, etc.
2. Traumatic: Surgery, radiation therapy, burns, etc.
3. Malignant tumor-related: Primary and secondary tumors
4. Others: Systemic diseases, pregnancy, etc.
What are the causes of lymphedema? The above is a detailed introduction by experts on the causes of lymphedema, hoping it will help you. For more questions, you can consult online with experts from Shanxi Yikang Peripheral Vascular Hospital. Finally, I wish you good health.
For more details, please visit the lymphedema special section of Shanxi Yikang Peripheral Vascular Hospital: http://www.sxykmgy.com/linbashuizhong/ or consult the experts for free. The experts will provide detailed answers based on the patient's specific situation.
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