What is Lymphedema?

Lymphedema (LE) is a condition in which there is swelling of a body part, most often an extremity, resulting from an accumulation of protein-rich lymph fluid, to such a degree it is visible or apparent when touched .

Lymphedema occurs when the lymph system is not able to fulfill its intended function of re-absorption and transport of the protein-rich lymph fluid. Lymphedema may occur when lymphatic vessels are absent, underdeveloped or obstructed. The condition often causes decreased ability to move, discomfort, and often repeated episodes of infection, cellulitus (local infection beneath the skin) and lymphangitis (infection of the lymphatic vessels). Severe cases of LE are associated with thickening of the skin, hardening of the tissue (fibrosis), leakage (weeping) of lymph fluid and massive swelling (elephantiasis).

A clinical diagnosis of lymphedema may be based on observation and inspection. There is a visible difference in the size of the affected limb compared to the unaffected limb. This can lead to general depression and a decline in a patient's quality of life and health status. The good news is with early detection and proper treatment, lymphedema can be well managed as part of a full and active life.

Lymphedema Prevention Information

• Lymphedema Information on the Internet
  
• Airline Travel and Lymphedema
  
• Lowering Risk of Lymphedema by Avoiding Sunburns
  
• For a complete list of Medical Advisory Information from the NLN please go to www.lymphnet.org

Mid-Missouri Breast Cancer & Lymphedema Support Groups

Mid-Missouri Lymphedema Network 
Contact Julie Peterson at 573-289-3368 for further information.

Mid-Missouri Cancer Awareness Group
Contact Kathy Windmoeller at 573-443-0622 for further information

Lymphedema In the News

March 6th "Lymphedema D-Day" of each year is celebrated by the National Lymphedema Network (NLN) and the nationwide lymphedema community. This date has been set aside to promote awareness of the treatment and severity of lymphedema.

Study Information

Women newly diagnosed with breast cancer are invited to enroll in a study to help understand lymphedema, the arm swelling that sometimes occurs after breast cancer treatment.

Study Update: Enrollment Continues to Increase
More than 350 breast cancer survivors are enrolled in the study!

Links

• Lymphedema
  
• Breast Cancer
  
• Other Research Studies
  
• Scholarly and In-press Publications
  
• Presentations
  
• Research Grants
  
• University of Missouri Health Care

The MU Sinclair School of Nursing Lymphedema Team.

Contact Information

Jane M. Armer, RN, PhD
Professor, Sinclair School of Nursing
S312 School of Nursing Building

Director, Nursing Research
Ellis Fischel Cancer Center

Co-Director, Health Communication Research Center
DC 116.05 Suite 408
EFCC
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO 65211

E-mail: armer@missouri.edu

Lymphedema Research Project Phone: 573-882-9972 

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