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