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Lymphedema and Lymphoma
Lymphedema is abnormal swelling due to the presence
of excess lymphatic fluid within the tissues. This swelling occurs when
the lymphatic system malfunctions or is damaged. Lymphedema affects an
estimated 100 million men, women, and children around the world including
at least 3 million Americans.
Lymphedema should not be confused with Lymphomas
which are cancers of the lymph system. More on What
is Lymphoma?
Lymphedema occurs most commonly in the extremities
(arms or legs); however, it can also affect the trunk, breast, abdomen,
neck, head, and or genitals.
Lymphoma and its treatments put patients at risk for
lymphedema, even after the lymphoma goes into remission. If lymph nodes are surgically removed or scar tissue builds up
in lymph vessels and nodes, lymphedema may result. The latest
research in August 2005 shows that lymphedema in lymphoma patients can be
minimized if the lymphoma is treated in time.
According to journals, the effect of lymphedema and
its treatments on quality of life has been studied in other cancer
patients, but not extensively in patients with lymphoma to date.
If you would like to learn more about Lymphedema, I
highly suggest the following publications:
 Living
Well With Lymphedema by Ann Ehrlich, Alma Vinjé-Harrewijn, PT, CLT &
Elizabeth McMahon, PhD, 2005. - this is the comprehensive resource
for those with, or at risk of developing, lymphedema. This
easy-to-read, generously illustrated, 280 page book contains the
information necessary to understand what is lymphedema, what causes it,
how it is treated, self-management steps to control your condition,
practical suggestions on how to master the emotional challenges that
accompany living with a chronic condition, plus an illustrated guide to
understanding the lymphatic system. Available in paperback
at 1/3 off from Amazon.
Overcoming
the Emotional Challenges of Lymphedema by Elizabeth McMahon, PhD This
book will help you: Understand the emotional challenges of lymphedema,
overcome these challenges and avoid common pitfalls, recognize problems
and know where to go for help. You may communicate effectively with
family, friends, coworkers, and health care professionals and set and
prioritize your goals Identify where you are in the process of
changing. You'll learn the ten signs of good coping and six
warning signs of ineffective coping. A comprehensive guide for: People
with lymphedema, friends and family, parents of children with lymphedema,
and health care professionals.
The Lymphoma Information Network is proud to refer
our friends to the premier lymphedema website on the web
LymphNotes.com is a comprehensive resource on the subject. Ann Ehrlich, author of
Living Well With Lymphedema along with an impressive team of other
professionals has the A to Z on this condition. I recommend their chart
comparing lymphoma and lymphedema.
Reference Links:
- LymphNotes.com
- MedlinePlus
(US National Library of Medicine)
- Article: Lower risk of fat formation and
fibrosis if lymphoma is treated in time, Lakartidningen. 2005 Aug
8-21;102(32-33):2220-5 Abstract
- Article: Lymphedema management in
patients with lymphoma, Nurs Clin North Am. 2001 Dec;36(4):709-34, vi. Abstract
- Other
PubMed abstracts for lymphoma & lymphedema
More information on lymphoma:
This page is a work in progress - if you have
more complete information, references, or other information please contact the author. The author is not in the medical field and does not warrant
the correctness of the material on this page or the sites linked - please take online
information and consult with your own medical team to make informed decisions.
Copyright © 2005 Lymphoma Information
Network - All Rights Reserved
http://www.LymphomaInfo.net/
Update November 27, 2005
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