Functional classification of secondary lymphedema

Publication date: Available online 1 November 2019Source: Annals of Medicine and SurgeryAuthor(s): Jose Maria Pereira de Godoy, Maria de Fatima Guerreiro GodoyAbstractThe epidemiological classifications of primary lymphedema based on age at emergence and the severity of the edema are fundamental to the transmission of information about this condition. In the secondary type, the lymphatic system is intact at birth but is injured during the course of life, causing a deficiency that leads to lymphedema. However, years of clinical experience and progress in treatment suggest new classifications to assist in the therapeutic planning of each patient. In clinical practice, we have observed inappropriate treatments that can cause more harm than good. Such observations are important and suggest the need for a proper diagnosis that considers all physiopathological processes involved for the establishment of the best form of treatment.
Source: Annals of Medicine and Surgery - Category: General Medicine Source Type: research