Transaxial computer tomography of lower extremity lymphedema

We examined retrospectively 11 patients with isolated unilateral lower limb lymphedema (clinical criteria confirmed by isotope lymphography) using computer tomography. In conjunction with earlier observations, the findings of soft tissue stranding, skin thickening, fat deposition in the epifascial compartment and perimuscular fascial thickening and edema relate to lymph stasis. This noninvasive and relatively simple imaging technique allows analysis of soft tissue changes in leg lymphedema and can be used to evaluate lymphatic insufficiency and its extent as well as document the response to treatment.