Are there different kinds of Lymphedema?
Yes. Lymphedema can be either primary or secondary lymphedema.
Primary lymphedema is usually due to either a congenital absence of, or abnormalities in, lymphatic tissue. It can be hereditary (Milroy Disease), lymphedema praecox (onset during puberty), or lymphedema tarda (onset later in life). Primary lymphedema is more prevalent in females than males.
Secondary lymphedema is generally caused by an obstruction or interruption of the lymphatic system, usually caused by malignancies, infection, trauma, excision, or post-radiation fibrosis.
Incidence
It is not known the true number of persons suffering from lymphedema. It is estimated that the incidences of lymphedema in the United States are as follows :
-Primary Lymphedemia:1-2 million
-Secondary Lymphedemia: 2-3 million
Purpose
The goal of a Lymphedemia Management Program is to improve the overall quality of life for a lymphedema patient.
Typical Treatments
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Compression Pump Therapy
Exercise Program