Which diseases should be differentiated from lymphedema? Lymphedema, commonly known as "elephantiasis," is one of the common diseases of the lymphatic system. Since the most common manifestation in patients is swelling of the lower limbs, it is easily confused with other diseases in clinical practice. The following diseases need to be differentiated during diagnosis:
1. Generalized disease-related edema
Conditions such as malnutrition, nephropathy, heart failure, liver disease, and myxedema can all cause bilateral lower limb edema. When lower limb lymphedema presents bilaterally, attention should be paid to differential diagnosis. Usually, after detailed medical history inquiry, physical examination, and necessary additional tests, differentiation is not difficult.
2. Deep vein thrombosis
This condition is more common in pregnant women, postpartum, post-surgery, or long-term bedridden patients, as well as those with hyper-viscous blood states. The onset is sudden, accompanied by swelling, fever, pain, and tenderness in the affected limb, with skin possibly turning purplish red and dilated superficial veins. Tenderness may occur in the femoral triangle area or significant tenderness in the calf's gastrocnemius muscle. In the chronic phase, there might be skin pigmentation or even skin ulcers. Swelling often decreases after elevating the affected limb and resting. Venography or Doppler ultrasound can reveal thrombi within the veins.
3. Angioneurotic edema
This usually occurs due to stimulation by certain sensitizing factors, with a rapid onset. With active treatment, the edema can quickly subside and may present as intermittent episodes; whereas lymphedema has a slow onset, the edema does not easily subside, and tends to gradually worsen.
4. Arteriovenous fistula
The limb swelling in arteriovenous fistula is milder than that in lymphedema, with local temperature elevation, extensive varicose veins visible, and vascular murmurs audible. The affected limb is thicker and longer compared to the healthy side, which are characteristic features of arteriovenous fistula edema.
5. Primary deep venous valve insufficiency of the lower extremities
Swelling in the affected limb mainly occurs in the middle and lower parts of the calf. There is no change in the skin resembling an orange peel. Swelling is worse in the afternoon or after fatigue. After adequate rest, the swelling can completely subside, often accompanied by varicose veins in the lower limbs or extensive dilation of small veins in the calf.
Which diseases should be differentiated from lymphedema? The above is a detailed introduction by experts on diseases that need to be differentiated from lymphedema, hoping it helps you. If you have more questions, you can consult online with experts at Shanxi Yikang Peripheral Vascular Hospital. Finally, wishing you good health.
For more details, please visit the lymphedema section of Shanxi Yikang Peripheral Vascular Hospital: http://www.sxykmgy.com/linbashuizhong/ or consult experts for free. Experts will provide detailed answers based on the specific conditions of the patient.
If you reprint this article, please note the source: Shanxi Yikang Peripheral Vascular Hospital: http://www.sxykmgy.com/lbszzz/21562.html