Which condition describes obstruction, fibrosis and inflammation of the lymphatic system?

Which condition describes obstruction, fibrosis and inflammation of the lymphatic system?

• A. Lymphedema
• B. Lymphadenitis
• C. Lymphedema praecox
• D. Lymphedema tarda

Answer: (A)

Lymphedema arises when lymph drainage is blocked, causing fluid buildup in tissues. This obstruction can lead to chronic changes, including fibrosis of the lymphatic channels and surrounding tissue, and inflammation may accompany or follow the stasis of lymph. The description—obstruction, fibrosis, and inflammation of the lymphatic system—best fits lymphedema, not lymphadenitis (inflammation limited to lymph nodes) or the primary subtypes which are defined mainly by age of onset rather than tissue changes.

Lymphedema arises when lymph drainage is blocked, causing fluid buildup in tissues. This obstruction can lead to chronic changes, including fibrosis of the lymphatic channels and surrounding tissue, and inflammation may accompany or follow the stasis of lymph. The description—obstruction, fibrosis, and inflammation of the lymphatic system—best fits lymphedema, not lymphadenitis (inflammation limited to lymph nodes) or the primary subtypes which are defined mainly by age of onset rather than tissue changes.