Is hampered by the outflow of lymph, fluid accumulates between the cells. The disorder can be congenital (primary lymphedema) and in childhood, adolescence, or up to 35 Age occur in the majority of women.

The lymphatic system can also by operations, cancer diseases and treatments, radiation, infection, and venous disease could be affected. Even after nerve damage, such as by a stroke, may be disturbed lymphatic drainage. Similarly, a tumor of lymphedema in the leg may be responsible. A worldwide common cause is infection with nematodes, filariae.

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Essentially important to distinguish between a primary and secondary lymphedema. Primary lymphoedema is due to an inherited weakness or aplasia (atresia) of the lymphatics and usually manifests itself in the third to fourth decade of life, while secondary lymphedema is secondary to another disease that damages the lymphatic drainage. A massively strong and not reversible lymphedema is called elephantiasis. Lymphangitis and erysipelas are relatively common inflammatory disease of the lymphatic vessels.

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