


They will show if a tumor or other mass is blocking the flow of the lymphatic system. A CT scan or an MRI can be used to show the pattern of lymph drainage. An ultrasound can also be used to rule out blood clots as a cause of the swelling.Ĭomputed tomography (CT or CAT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This imaging test uses sound waves to create a picture of the inside of the body. The flow of fluid through the lymph system can be seen using an ultrasound. This is a reliable test, but it is not commonly used. This is an imaging method that creates a picture of the lymphatic system. The affected arm or leg can also be placed into a tank of water to calculate the volume of fluid that has built up. Measurements will be taken of the affected body part to monitor the swelling.

But sometimes they will recommend additional tests to confirm a diagnosis, plan treatment, or rule out other causes of the symptoms. How is lymphedema diagnosed?Ī doctor is often able to find lymphedema by looking at the affected area. For instance, a bacterial or fungal infection or another disease involving the lymphatic system may cause this problem. Sometimes lymphedema is not related to cancer or its treatment. The risk of lymphedema increases with the number of lymph nodes and lymph vessels removed or damaged during cancer treatment or biopsies. Radiation therapy or other causes of inflammation or scarring in the lymph nodes and lymph vesselsīlockage of the lymph nodes and/or lymph vessels by the cancer Lymph node removal can cause lymphedema in the arm. For example, surgery for breast cancer often involves removing 1 or more lymph nodes under the arm to check for cancer. Surgery in which lymph nodes were removed. The most common causes of lymphedema in cancer survivors include: Lymphedema can be a long-term side effect of some cancer treatments. Lymphedema can occur in people with many types of cancer, including bladder, breast, head and neck, ovarian, penile, and prostate cancers. Other times, lymphedema may begin more suddenly. Sometimes the only symptoms may be heaviness or aching in an arm or leg. Symptoms of lymphedema may begin slowly and are not always easy to detect. Nasal congestion or long-lasting middle ear pain, if swelling is severe
BIG BOOBS SQUEED BETWEEN HER ARMS SKIN
Thickening and scarring of the skin on the neck and face, called fibrosisĭecreased vision because of swollen eyelidsĭifficulty swallowing, speaking, or breathingĭrooling or dropping food from the mouth while eating Swelling of the eyes, face, lips, neck, or area below the chinĭifficulty moving the neck, jaw, or shoulders Lymphedema in the head and neck may cause the following symptoms: Skin that looks like an orange peel (swollen with small indentations) Hardened skin that does not indent when pressed or thicker skin Rings, watches, or clothes that become too tight Lymphedema in an arm or leg may cause the following symptoms: The symptoms of lymphedema depend on the part of the body that is affected. Talk with your health care team about any symptoms you have, including new symptoms or changes. This is called palliative and supportive care. Treating and relieving side effects is an important part of cancer care and treatment. But it can also happen in the neck, face, mouth, abdomen, groin, or other parts of the body. Most often, lymphedema affects an arm or leg. Or, it may occur months or even years after cancer treatment has ended.

Lymphedema may develop immediately after surgery or radiation therapy. When lymph nodes are removed or damaged, lymphatic fluid can collect in the surrounding tissue and make them swell. Lymph nodes are found throughout the body. Small, bean-shaped glands that filter bacteria and other harmful substances out of the lymphatic fluid. A network of thin tubes that carry lymph throughout the body. A colorless fluid containing white blood cells. The lymphatic system helps fight infection and other diseases is made up of: It is caused by a blockage in the body's lymphatic system. Lymphedema is the abnormal buildup of fluid in soft tissue.
