lymphedema is an abnormal buildup of fluid that causes swelling most often in the arms or legs. the condition develops when lymph vessels or lymph nodes are missing impaired damaged or removed. there are two types of lymphedema: primary and secondary. primary lymphedema is rare and is caused by the absence of certain lymph vessels at birth. secondary lymphedema occurs as a result of a blockage or interruption that alters the flow of lymph through the lymphatic system and can develop from an infection cancer surgery scar tissue formation trauma deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in a vein) radiation or other cancer treatment.
what is lymphedema?