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How to differentiate between lymphedema and lipedema: How to rule out lipedema
Published in Byung-Boong Lee, Peter Gloviczki, Francine Blei, Jovan N. Markovic, Vascular Malformations, 2019
Lipedema is a disproportional obesity with presumed endocrinological and genetic backgrounds consisting of bilateral, symmetrical, stove-pipe-shaped fatty swelling of the legs or arms.1–3 The estimated incidence of lipedema is uncertain; however, according to multicentric observations, up to 18.8% of all patients referred to lymphedema clinics had lipedema.2 Lipedema, especially in advanced stages, is quite frequently combined with lymphatic or venous insufficiency that may strongly modify the original limb shape resembling the features of identical vascular affection (lymph- or/and phlebedema).2
Lower limb
Published in Tor Wo Chiu, Stone’s Plastic Surgery Facts, 2018
Lymphoedema needs to be differentiated from Lipoedema (lipodystrophy) – suitable for liposuction. See below.Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome – varicose veins, limb elongation, vascular malformations, limb oedema (some have lymphatic abnormalities).Venous hypertension – exclude deep venous thrombosis (DVT) (Doppler/venogram).Oedema due to hepatic, renal or cardiac causes.
Lymphatic disorders
Published in Professor Sir Norman Williams, Professor P. Ronan O’Connell, Professor Andrew W. McCaskie, Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 2018
Professor Sir Norman Williams, Professor P. Ronan O’Connell, Professor Andrew W. McCaskie
This presents almost exclusively in women and comprises bilateral, usually symmetrical, enlargement of the legs and, sometimes, the lower half of the body because of the abnormal deposition of fat. It may or may not be associated with generalised obesity. There are a number of features that help to differentiate the condition from lymphoedema but, of course, lipoedema may coexist with other causes of limb swelling. It has been proposed that lipoedema results from, or at least is associated with, fatty obliteration of lymphatics and lymph nodes.
Women’s experiences of living with lipedema
Published in Health Care for Women International, 2022
Catharina Melander, Päivi Juuso, Malin Olsson
Lipedema is a chronic, progressive disease with an unknown etiology that almost exclusively affects women. The disease is underdiagnosed and often misdiagnosed as obesity or primary lymphedema. In lipedema, abnormal depositions of subcutaneous fat cause bilateral swelling and enlargement of the buttocks and legs, which develop slowly and gradually. Lipedema is associated with discomfort, bruising, and severe pain in affected areas, as well as limited mobility. Typically, the disease starts during or soon after puberty, but it can also start in connection to pregnancy or menopause. Since the progression of lipedema varies to a great extent, it is difficult not only to predict the course of the disease but also to control it. There are no easy solutions to treat lipedema. Conservative therapy is often used, which focuses on patient education, weight control, manual lymphatic drainage therapy, and compression therapy. Surgery, such as liposuction, may also play a part in the management of the disease. Lipedema is associated with both physical and psychological morbidity, making it vital to provide adequate care and support (Buck & Herbst, 2016; Forner-Cordero et al., 2012; Langendoen et al., 2009). Lipedema concerns the women’s health and the disease has no known geographical boundaries. While the hidden statistics are probably large, epidemiological studies suggest an approximately 10–15% prevalence in the female population worldwide (Buck & Herbst, 2016; Forner-Cordero et al., 2012).
Low-frequency vibrotherapy considerably improves the effectiveness of manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) in patients with lipedema: A two-armed, randomized, controlled pragmatic trial
Published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, 2020
Lipedema is a chronic and progressive disease characterized by a disproportionate, symmetrical swelling of subcutaneous adipose tissue in the lower and, to a lesser degree, in the upper extremities of predominantly women. The disease is often painful and, if left untreated, may cause multiple secondary health problems (e.g. mobility impairment). Both etiology and prevalence are largely unknown. However, lipedema usually develops early in puberty and is moderately correlated with hereditary hormonal disorders (Child et al, 2010). At later stages, some of the typical clinical features are: (1) small fatty nodules within the tissue; (2) bulges of fatty tissue above the knee; (3) swelling of the limbs throughout the day; and (4) sensitivity to pressure and easy bruising.