Conservative and integrated management of genital lymphoedema: case reports for men

Genital oedema of primary and secondary aetiology is gaining increased recognition; it occurs in people of all ages, although accurate prevalence remains unknown. While reports of surgical intervention are quite common, clear description of conservative management is rare, and, overall, diagnosis and management remain largely delayed. Conservative management of genital oedema requires imaginative use of compression bandages and support garments, adapted manual lymphatic drainage, enablement of exercise and activities required for school/employment and diligent skin care to avoid cellulitis. The aim of this article is to present case reports from two European countries discussing five males of differing ages and with genital oedema of different aetiology as examples of conservative management of male genital oedema. The case reports include an adolescent boy with genital oedema since age 1 year, a 49-year-old man treated for penile cancer, a 60-year-old man treated for primary rectal lymphoma, a 48-year-old man with morbid obesity and a 49-year-old with obesity and recurrent infections. The latter two cases integrate surgery and conservative care. Case reports can be a useful means of addressing education needs related to rarer conditions and sharing practice where diagnostic criteria and specific protocols of care are lacking.