lymphedema /lim′fidē″mə/ [L, lympha + Gk, oidema, swelling] , a primary or secondary condition characterized by the accumulation of lymph in soft tissue and the resultant swelling caused by inflammation, obstruction, or removal of lymph channels. Lymph drainage from the extremity can be improved with compression and elevation. Light massage in the direction of the lymph flow and thiazide diuretics may be prescribed. Surgery may be performed to remove hypertrophied lymph channels and disfiguring tissue. Kinds include lymphedema praecox, Milroy’s disease. See also secondary lymphedema. −lymphedematous, lymphedematose, adj.
