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Current Dermatology Reports
Published in: Current Dermatology Reports 4/2019

01-12-2019 | Edema | Wound Care (H Lev-Tov, Section Editor)

Lymphedema: New Concepts in Diagnosis and Treatment

Authors: Robyn Bjork, Heather Hettrick

Published in: Current Dermatology Reports | Issue 4/2019

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

This review’s aim is to coalesce current evidence regarding the lymphatic system and lymphedema, bridge the gap from traditional approaches to emerging concepts, and present simple strategies that can be immediately implemented into everyday clinical practice.

Recent Findings

New evidence of the microcirculation redefines all edema as lymphedema and having the potential to result in chronic inflammation and deleterious soft tissue changes. These soft tissue changes are easily identifiable through simple manual tests that also help direct interventions. CDT is the gold standard of treatment, but components are evolving with the emergence of new technologies and new understandings of mechanobiology. The lymphatic and integumentary systems are interdependent, requiring concurrent lymphedema and wound management strategies.

Summary

Optimization of the lymphatic system is key to edema management and wound healing. Future research is needed to progress individualized diagnostics of lymphatic vasculature so treatment interventions can be customized to each patient.
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Metadata
Title
Lymphedema: New Concepts in Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors
Robyn Bjork
Heather Hettrick
Publication date
01-12-2019
Publisher
Springer US
Keywords
Edema
Lymphedema
Published in
Current Dermatology Reports / Issue 4/2019
Electronic ISSN: 2162-4933
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s13671-019-00273-2

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