What is
Lymphoedema?

Lymphoedema is the build up of protein rich lymphatic fluid in soft tissues due to inadequate drainage

This can occur spontaneously from birth (congenital) or secondarily after trauma or surgery to remove lymph nodes (e.g. for cancer). If untreated, lymphoedema will progress causing the development of irreversible thickening of the skin and soft tissues. Patients with under-treated lymphoedema are at a higher risk of skin infections (cellulitis) as bacteria can infect this tissue more easily.

Lymphoedema can range in severity from very mild swelling asymmetry between limbs, to progressive swelling that fluctuates, to severe non-compressible fibrotic swelling. It is important to recognise the early signs of subjective heaviness, clothes not fitting symmetrically or rings/watches not fitting as they used to. Early intervention and recognition of disease progression can aid intervention to prevent progression to more severe disease.

What is Lipedema
and how is it different?

Lipedema is the abnormal deposition of thick fat cells and connective tissue, generally symmetrical and in the lower limbs.

The cause of lipedema is unknown, and while there is no cure, there are treatments to improve patients quality of life. While there are ‘stages’ of lipedema, these do not take into account impact on quality of life, discomfort on a daily basis, nor treatment appropriatness.