Skip to main content

Lymphedema, Pediatric

Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • Lymphedema is a chronic progressive swelling in subcutaneous tissues, typically in an extremity or the genitals, due to protein-rich accumulation of interstitial fluid from disruptio...

DIAGNOSIS

History and physical exam are primary source for diagnosis. 

HISTORY

  • Unilateral, heavy, often aching lower extremity edema in healthy pubertal female strongly suggests lymphedema praecox.

  • Heavy...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Therapy should be instituted as soon as possible and before fibrosis develops.

  • Goals of therapy are to minimize or decrease edema and to prevent infection, fibrosis, and skin ...

ONGOING CARE

DIET

In children with chylous reflux syndromes, a diet low in long-chain triglycerides may be of benefit. 

PROGNOSIS

  • Edema persists throughout life.

  • Lymphedema can be staged and monitored via...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Gary DE. Lymphedema diagnosis and management. J Am Acad Nurse Pract.  2007;19(2):72–78. [View Abstract on OvidInsights]

  • International Society of Lymphology. The diagnosis and tr...

CODES

ICD9

  • 457.1 Other lymphedema

  • 757.0 Hereditary edema of legs

  • 997.99 Complications affecting other specified body systems, not elsewhere classified

ICD10

  • I89.0 Lymphedema, not elsewhere classified

  • Q82.0 ...

FAQ

  • Q: Is the swelling going to go away?

  • A: It depends if it is due to a primary or secondary cause. A mild to moderate secondary cause may be reversible with therapy. A chronic, primary cause will req...

Subscribe to Access Full Content

Sign Up for a 10-Day Free Trial

Sign up for a 10-day FREE Trial now and receive full access to all content.

 
×