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A lymphedema doctor is a physician with training and expertise in lymphology.Lymphology is the study of the lymphatic system.
The physician through a comprehensive medical history and physical examination can help in the diagnosis and differentiate between the different kinds of "edemas". Edema or swelling of an arm or leg can be related to conditions of the heart, kidney, liver, lymphatic and venous system and/or if related to side effect of some medications. The lymphologist can also define whether the lymphedema is primary or secondary; and the course of action to follow.
When the lymph fluid flow is impaired then is accumulated and called lymphedema. If the cause of your lymphedema is not obvious, imaging tests can be ordered to determine what's causing the condition:
*Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - using magnetic fields and radio waves, an MRI produces 3-D, high-resolution images. An MRI gives a better look at the tissues in your arm or leg.
*Computerized tomography (CT) scan - is an X-ray technique that produces detailed, cross-sectional images of your body's structures. CT scans can reveal areas of the lymphatic system that may be blocked.
*Doppler ultrasound - looks at blood flow and pressure by bouncing high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) off red blood cells. Ultrasound can be helpful in finding venous and arterial obstructions.
*Radionuclide imaging of your lymphatic system (lymphoscintigraphy) - during this test you're injected with a radioactive material and then scanned by a machine. The resulting images show the material moving through your lymph vessels, highlighting areas where the lymph fluid is blocked.
The lymphedema physician takes an active part in the treatment.
The treatment is oriented to control the lymphedema and prevent further complications such as ulcers and infectious process sometimes called cellulitis, properly named dermatolymphoadenitis. The infectious process should be treated promptly to prevent a systemic bacterial infection, sepsis that could be life threatening. Other associated infections can be related to fungus usually involving the nails and skin that need to be treated with anti-fungicidal medications to prevent worsening of the lymphedema.
The assessment of the kidney, liver and heart function should be considered before starting complete decongestive therapy (MLD/CDT).
