Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2026

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema
Published on: January 12, 2017
[Lymphedema--guidelines for evaluation and treatment]
1Department of Vascular Surgery, Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Affiliated to Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel. eitanh@asaf.health.gov.il
Insights
Lymphedema, a neglected vascular disease, requires more research into its pathophysiology and treatment. Current knowledge is limited, emphasizing the need for improved therapeutic strategies for affected patients.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Lymphatic System Disorders
Context:
- Lymphedema is recognized as a neglected vascular disease.
- Existing medical literature extensively covers arterial and venous diseases, but knowledge gaps persist regarding lymphedema.
- Physician understanding of lymphedema pathophysiology and treatment options remains limited.
Purpose:
- To highlight the scarcity of knowledge surrounding lymphedema pathophysiology and treatment.
- To underscore the need for further research into this understudied condition.
Summary:
- Lymphedema is classified into primary (congenital, praecox, tarda) and secondary forms.
- Conservative management is the primary therapeutic approach for lymphedema.
- Surgical interventions have not demonstrated definitive efficacy and should complement, not replace, daily conservative care.
Impact:
- Increased research is crucial for advancing the treatment of lymphedema patients.
- Improved understanding will aid in developing more effective therapeutic strategies for this complex condition.
Abstract:
Lymphedema is the "neglected vascular disease". A lot has been written about arterial and venous pathologies but our knowledge, as physicians, about the pathophysiology on the one hand and about the treatment, on the other hand, is scarce. Lymphedema is subdivided into primary and secondary disease. The primary lymphedema is further subdivided to congenital, praecox and tarda. Conservative treatment is the first line of therapy. Surgery has not been proven as a good solution for this disease, and furthermore, even when operations are being conducted, conservative treatment should be continued on a daily basis. It seems that further research about this "forgotten disease" should be designed in order to improve the treatment of these complicated patients.
Related Concept Videos
Lymphatic Vessels and Lymph Transport
This one-way system allows fluids, solutes, and even pathogens to enter but prevents their return to the intercellular spaces.
Development of the Lymphatic System
The first lymph sacs to form are the paired jugular lymph sacs located at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. From these sacs, lymphatic capillary plexuses extend to the thorax, upper limbs, neck, and head, eventually forming lymphatic vessels. Each jugular lymph sac maintains a...
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management
Nephrotic Syndrome III : Nursing Management
Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management

