Measurement of Lymphedema (return to menu)
The term "measurement of lymphedema" is itself somewhat ambiguous.
The
reason is that by one definition lymphedema is accumulation of
"protein-rich edema".
So, to truly measure lymphedema, one would need to be able to quantify
the amount of "protein-rich edema" that is present.
As of now, there is
no reliable method that can accomplish this measurement.
However, there are a number of ways that measureable
effects associated with the lymphedematous condition can be
determined.
Although these effects may be complex in detail, three
conveniently grouped broad categories can be usefully
defined.
1) Tissue volume changes
2) Tissue water changes
3) Tissue mechanical property changes