Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 23, 2026

Isolation of Human Lymphatic Endothelial Cells by Multi-parameter Fluorescence-activated Cell Sorting
Published on: May 1, 2015
Massive Localized Lymphedema: Two Rare Case Reports of this Peculiar Entity and Anatomic Distortion
Evangelos Dimakakos1, Maria Zarokosta2, Theodoros Mariolis Sapsakos2
1Angiologist-Anatomy and Histology Laboratory, Nursing School, University of Athens, Greece.
Introduction:
Massive localized lymphedema (MLL), also called pseudosarcoma in the literature, constitutes a rare benign clinical disorder presenting in obese patients and characterized by chronic accumulation of lymph and adipose tissue due to lymphatic flow obstruction.
Presentation Of Case:
A 43-year-old, morbidly obese white woman proceeded to our institution with extended lymphedema. In addition, a 54-year-old white man sought medical advice for the same clinical issue. Surgical excision of the soft tissue mass was performed in both cases so that the patients could regain mobility of their limbs. The operation was uneventful. The histopathologic analysis asserted the diagnosis of MLL. A meticulous review of the literature was conducted as well.
Discussion:
MLL is a scarce, non-malignant clinical entity that may mimic an abundance of soft tissue tumors. Patients with MLL are typically obese females with body mass index (BMI) > 40 kg/m2 who present with non-specific symptoms. The diagnosis of MLL is challenging, and its etiology and treatment are not completely elucidated.
Conclusion:
Surgeons' deep knowledge regarding this peculiar clinical disorder is the cornerstone for the establishment of a correct diagnosis and warrants the adequate treatment, in addition to the elimination of the potentiality of malignant transformation of MLL to angiosarcoma or liposarcoma and of probable recurrence of MLL.
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...
Healing II: Complications
Cirrhosis I: Introduction

