Swollen lower limb—2: Lymphoedema

Primary lymphoedema

Congenital lymphoedema presenting at or soon after birth is rare. A family history suggests Milroy's disease. Swelling invariably affects both lower limbs, but the upper limbs and face may also swell.

Limb swelling may be the presenting and major manifestation of congenital lymphatic malformations either in a pure form—for example, diffuse lymphangioma—or in combination with a congenital vascular syndrome—for example, Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome (varicose veins, excessive long bone growth, and vascular birthmark).

Most forms of primary lymphoedema present after puberty with foot and ankle swelling. Women are more often affected, and the condition may be familial—for example, Meige's disease. Lymph reflux due to lymphatic vessel hypertrophy or megalymphatics is clinically distinguishable.

Secondary lymphoedema

Lymphoedema manifesting with sudden onset of swelling of one whole leg suggests proximal obstruction. Pelvic causes of venous or lymphatic …