There are several factors that can cause lymphedema. The causes are divided into primary and secondary, which serves also as its classification. Primary lymphedema is caused by hereditary factors, meaning, it is acquired during birth. On the other hand, secondary lymphedema means that lymphedema was caused by other factors, excluding those that are hereditary. Under this classification, the disease may be due to surgery, injury to the lymphatic system, radiation therapy, infection or parasitic invasion.
Primary lymphedema usually occurs during adolescence. Although it can happen among infants, such cases are rare. Lymphedema in infants are known as Milroy’s disease or congenital lymphedema. Conversely, Meige disease or lymphedema praecox happen around puberty or late childhood. People aged 35 years and above may also develop lymphedema, which is called lymphedema tarda, or late-onset lymphedema.
Primary lymphedema may be caused by hypoplasia or hyperplasia. Hypoplasia is abnormality characterized by a decrease in the size or number of lymphatic vessels. In contrast, hyperplasia is when a person’s got too many impaired lymphatic vessels. So instead of these vessels doing their job right, they cause lymph (or the protein-fluid) to retain in the tissues. Primary lymphedema, however, is quite rare though despite its rarity, it is frequently seen in women. In addition, it is more likely to affect the legs and not the arms.
Secondary lymphedema on the other hand, is more common than primary lymphedema. People who have undergone surgery for breast cancer and colon cancer are prone to this type of disease. Radiation therapy is also ranked as a factor causing lymphedema. In addition, limb paralysis or an inflammatory condition could also lead to the development of this disease. In tropical regions, filariasis, which is caused by the Brugia malayi parasite is a common cause of secondary lymphedema. Although there is still no cure for lymphedema, treatment is available to prevent swelling from worsening or from complications from arising.