Secondary Lymphedema
SECONDARY LYMPHEDEMA (SLE)
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Stage 2 lymphedema of the left arm after
breast cancer treatment. © Lymph Notes
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Secondary lymphedema is an acquired disorder caused by damage to the lymphatic system.
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There are approximately 3 million cases of SLE in the US.
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Cancer treatment is the largest single cause of this condition.
Additional causes are due to:
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injuries,
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surgery,
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radiation,
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joint replacement,
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burns,
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scars, and
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obesity.
SLE usually develops near the location where lymphatic structures have been removed or damaged.
Most commonly SLE is diagnosed in the arms and legs; however, lymphedema also affects other body parts and these cases are named for this affected area.
Another possibility is that the condition can be named for the cause.
© LymphNotes.com 2013.This information does not replace the advice of a qualified health care professional.
Got a question or comment? Post it in the
How Lymphedema is Treated forum. Publication: Living With Lymphedema Updated: 2013-08-15
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