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Updated: May 5, 2026
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Occlusion of the Great and Small Saphenous Vein Using Copolymeric Glue Based on N-Butyl Cyanoacrylate and Methacryloxy Sulfolane
Published on: December 9, 2022
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[Leg swelling]
S M Schellong1, U Wollina, L Unger
1Medizinische Klinik 2, Krankenhaus Dresden-Friedrichstadt, Städtisches Klinikum, Friedrichstr. 41, 01067, Dresden, Deutschland, schellong-se@khdf.de.
Der Internist
|November 23, 2013
Summary
Leg swelling has many causes, including vein and lymphatic issues, fluid overload, and low protein. Diagnosis often relies on patient history and physical exam, reducing the need for further tests.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Nephrology
- Cardiology
Context:
- Leg swelling is a common symptom with diverse underlying causes.
- Understanding these causes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.
- Differential diagnosis involves considering various systemic and local pathologies.
Purpose:
- To review the pathophysiology and clinical features of common leg swelling causes.
- To provide a guide for the differential diagnosis of leg edema.
- To highlight key mechanisms like venous/lymphatic issues, volume overload, and oncotic pressure.
Summary:
- Frequent causes include deep vein thrombosis, chronic venous insufficiency, lymphedema, cardiac failure, hypoproteinemia, and drug-induced edema.
- Lipedema is an important differential diagnosis to consider.
- Most cases are diagnosed through thorough history and physical examination, with further tests reserved for a minority.
Impact:
- Aids clinicians in diagnosing the diverse causes of leg swelling.
- Improves patient management by identifying underlying conditions.
- Contributes to the medical literature on edema pathophysiology and clinical presentation.
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