Lymphedema
| Title: | Lymphedema |
|---|---|
| Description: |
Lymphedema; drawing showing a female figure with a red, swollen arm. The lymph nodes and lymphatic vessels are also shown in the figure. There is a pull-out from the swollen arm showing a top layer of red, hardened skin. There is also a pull-out box from a lymphatic vessel below the skin that shows a cancerous tumor blocking the flow of lymph fluid through a lymphatic vessel and a buildup of fluid and white blood cells in the surrounding tissues. Lymphedema is swelling caused by a buildup of lymph fluid in the body, usually in an arm or leg. The lymph system helps the body fight infection and is made up of lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, and organs that collect and carry lymph fluid through the body. When part of the lymph system is damaged or blocked by cancer or cancer treatment, the flow of lymph fluid through the body is disrupted. This can lead to increased fluid in the tissues, inflammation, and the release of white blood cells, which can cause swelling in the affected body part. Discoloration and hardening of the skin in the affected area can also occur. |
| Topics/Categories: |
Anatomy -- Lymphatic System Anatomy -- Skin |
| Type: | Color, Medical Illustration (JPEG format) |
| Source: | National Cancer Institute |
| Creator: | Terese Winslow (Illustrator) |
| AV Number: | CDR814722 |
| Date Created: | February 20, 2024 |
| Date Added: | March 19, 2024 |
| Reuse Restrictions: |
Yes - This image is copyright protected. Any use of this image is subject to prevailing copyright laws. U.S. Government has reuse rights. Please contact the rights holder of this image for permission requests.
Rights holder: Terese Winslow Email: terese@teresewinslow.com |