Deciphering the Pathobiological Impairment Mechanisms of the Lymphatic System during Secondary Lymphedema Progression

Lymphedema is the state or condition in which the lymphatic system cannot efficiently drain the extravasated fluid from the periphery, leading to a delayed while progressive edema formation. In fact, the term “delayed” illustrates one of the most important clinical characteristics of patients with lymphedema. Lymphedema does not appear immediately after the oncologic surgery or radiotherapy but requires months-to-years to become noticeable. This occurs when the compensatory mechanisms of the lymphati c vascular system are exhausted, leading subsequently to the development and (if left untreated) establishment of lymphedema, manifested with vascular, extracellular matrix, and immunological alterations (Li et al, 2020).
Source: Journal of Investigative Dermatology - Category: Dermatology Authors: Tags: Commentary Source Type: research