[Secondary limb lymphedema]

Abstract

Lymphedema is related to congenital lymphatic abnormality (primary forms) or acquired (secondary forms) after lesions of lymphatic system. Upper to limb secondary lymphedema after breast cancer treatment is the most frequent in France. The first worldwide cause is lymphatic filariosis. Secondary lymphedema is related to adverse effects after cancer treatment including surgery with lymph nodes excision associated with radiotherapy: breast, melanoma for upper limb, cervical, uterine, prostate, bladder cancer, melanoma for lower limb. At lymphedema onset, deep venous thrombosis and recurrent cancer should be investigated. Rare causes of lymphedema are also reported: rheumatic diseases (rheumatoid arthritis), Kaposi sarcoma, retroperitoneal fibrosis, immunosuppressive agent (sirolimus).