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

Types of Lymphedema

Primary Lymphedema

Primary lymphedema results from a condition present at birth (congenital) abnormality. This type of lymphedema is not well understood, but it is thought to be an inherited abnormality of the lymphatic system.

Secondary Lymphedema

This type of lymphedema results from disruption or destruction of a normal lymphatic system due to an injury, disease or infection, or as a side effect of a medical procedure. The most common cause worldwide is secondary to a parasitic infection. The parasite lodges itself in the lymphatic system, obstructing lymphatic vessels and disrupting lymphatic flow. In the US, however, nearly all cases are related to cancer or cancer therapy. It is frequently associated with breast cancer, prostate cancer, pelvic area cancers, lymphoma, and melanoma. Breast cancer treatment is the most common cause of cancer-related lymphedema.^{(1)(2) (3)(4)}

Cancer Related Lymphedema

Because the lymphatic system is found throughout the body and carries fluid and cells, it can serve as a 'highway' for cancer cells migrating away from a tumor. When a tumor is removed, lymph nodes in the region are often removed as well, and examined for the presence of tumor cells. For many cancers, this is a routine part of the staging and treatment process. Radiation therapy used in treating cancer is often aimed at the lymph nodes in an effort to destroy any cancer cells that have drifted away from the tumor. These treatments can damage the lymphatic system resulting in the collection of lymphatic fluid in body tissues and results in swelling of the arms, legs, or trunk.^{(1)(5) (6)(7)}

References for this page:

1. Cormier JN, Askew RL, Mungovan KS, Xing Y, Ross MI, Armer JM. Lymphedema beyond breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cancer-related secondary lymphedema. Cancer. 2010 Nov 15;116(22):5138-49 [PUBMED]
2. Hinrichs CS, Watroba NL, Rezaishiraz H, Giese W, Hurd T, Fassl KA, Edge SB. Lymphedema secondary to postmastectomy radiation: incidence and risk factors. Ann Surg Oncol. 2004 Jun;11(6):573-80. [PUBMED]
3. Fu MR, Ridner SH, Armer J. Post-breast cancer. Lymphedema: part 1. Am J Nurs. 2009 Jul;109(7):48-54; quiz 55. [PUBMED]
4. Fu MR, Ridner SH, Armer J. Post-breast cancer lymphedema: part 2. Am J Nurs. 2009 Aug;109(8):34-41; quiz 42. [PUBMED]
5. National Lymphedema Network. A Brief Overview. Accessed July 24, 2007. [http://www.lymphnet.org/lymphedemaFAQs/overview.htm]
6. National Cancer Institute. Lymphedema. Accessed July 24, 2007 [http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/lymphedema/Patient/page2]
7. American Cancer Society. Understanding Lymphedema. Accessed on 8/3/2010 [http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MIT/content/MIT_7_2x_Understanding_Lymphedema.asp]