How is lymphedema of the legs diagnosed? | Lymphedema of the legs

How is lymphedema of the legs diagnosed?

Swelling of the legs can have various causes.The diagnosis “lymphedema of the legs” can be made by a medical consultation (anamnesis) and a physical examination of the legs. In lymphedema of the legs, the toes are also swollen and appear as “box toes” due to the accumulation of lymph fluid in the tissue. It is then no longer possible to lift a fold of skin over the toes, which is known as a positive “stemmer sign”. In addition, distinct transverse wrinkles form on the toes, and the skin surface of the affected region becomes rough. Due to these characteristic features, the diagnosis “lymphedema of the legs” is easy to make and a clear distinction to venous oedema is possible.

Lymphedema of the legs after surgery

Lymphedema of the legs can occur after operations in which lymph nodes and lymph vessels in the abdomen had to be removed. These lymph nodes are in fact the drainage stations for the lymph fluid from the legs. If they have been injured or removed, the lymph accumulates back into the legs and a secondary lymphedema of the legs develops. In most cases, these lymph nodes are removed as part of cancer surgery, as in ovarian or cervical cancer.

What is the term erysipelas/lymphangitis?

Erysipelas is an infectious disease that spreads via the lymphatic system. Infectious agents, mostly bacteria of the genus Streptococcus, can enter the body through the smallest injuries to the skin. There they trigger an inflammation and spread via the lymphatic system.

Affected body regions are painfully swollen, overheated and reddened. Lymphedema of the legs promotes the development of erythema. Treatment is with antibiotics. If the erysipelas is discovered too late or is not treated, blood poisoning with fever and chills can result.