Inside "Side Effects":

@CancerQuest on Twitter:

Related to this page:

Test your knowledge on Side Effects

Was this page helpful? | What did you like most? How can we make it better?

CancerQuest > Introduction to Patient Information > Side Effects of Cancer Treatments > Lymphedema: Introduction > Stages of Lymphedema

Stages of Lymphedema

There are four stages of lymphedema. The disease will not necessarily progress from a lower stage to a higher stage. Right now there is no cure for lymphedema, but with proper care the disease can be managed and progression can be prevented.

Stage 0 - Lymphedema is present but does not cause symptoms (subclinical). Swelling is not apparent despite reduced lymphatic function. It may exist months or years before visible swelling occurs.

 

Stage I - Early accumulation of fluid that is relatively high in protein content. Swelling may subside with limb elevation. Pitting of the skin may occur.

Stage II - Pitting may or may not occur as tissue fibrosis develops. Limb elevation alone rarely reduces tissue swelling.

Stage III - A severe increase in swelling may develop, along with skin changes, such as thickening of the skin, fat deposits, and warty over-growths. This stage of lymphedema may also be called lymphostatic elephantitis.