What Are the Causes of Lymphedema?

Lymphedema is a medical condition in which a person's lymph nodes, called the lymphatic system, cannot process fluid through the limbs. The lymph fluid builds up in the body and creates swelling in the affected arm or leg. Lymphedema cannot be cured forever, but it can be managed through a series of exercises, compression garments and massage therapy. Lymphedema may be something a person is born with, or it may develop during his lifetime.

Genetic Predisposition

Lymphedema that is inherited or due to genetic abnormalities is called primary lymphedema. People with primary lymphedema are born with the condition but may not develop symptoms until they are adolescents or adults. Three types of primary lymphedema are hereditary: Milroy disease that is diagnosed in infancy; Meige disease, usually discovered during the tween and teen years; and lymphedema tarda, which is usually not discovered until a person is in her mid- to late 30s.

Infection

Infection, due to parasites, bacteria or a virus, can cause fluid to accumulate in the lymph nodes, creating edema. Lymphedema through infection is not common in the United States and other developed countries, but is prevalent in third world countries and tropical areas around the globe.

Structural Damage

Lymphedema can be the result of structural damage of the lymph vessels and nodes, through injury or surgery. Lymphedema may occur, for example, if lymph nodes are removed during a mastectomy. Many times, the parts of the lymphatic system that remain intact can compensate for the loss of the diseased or injured node, but when it can't, fluid builds up and creates swelling.

Cancer

Cancer can be a cause of lymphedema, not only from surgeries that may treat the illness, but through the progression of the disease itself. Tumors growing in certain areas of the body may block the lymph vessels, causing the lymph fluid to pool in the body instead of drain. Radiation therapy used to treat cancer can also cause an obstruction to or even damage the lymphatic system, in which case lymphedema is a likely result.