If you are at risk of developing lymphoedema because you have had treatment for cancer, you may be offered an assessment for lymphoedema as part of your aftercare treatment plan. Otherwise, see your GP if you experience symptoms of swelling.
There are a number of specialist lymphoedema treatment centres in England. Your GP may refer you to one of these for further assessment.
In many cases, it is possible to make a diagnosis of lymphoedema by:
- asking about your symptoms and medical history
- measuring the distance around the affected limb to see if it is enlarged
Other tests may be recommended to assess the extent and severity of your symptoms. These tests are explained below.
Tape measure
A tape measure is used at 4cm (1.6in) intervals up the leg to measure the limb circumference and then calculate limb volume.
Water displacement method
The water displacement method is based on the principle that you can calculate the volume of an object by measuring how much water it displaces (the amount of water that is pushed out of the way when an object is placed in water).
You will be asked to place the affected limb in a tank of water and the amount of water that is displaced will then be measured. This measurement can be used to calculate the volume of your limb.
Perometry
Perometry is a technique that uses infrared light to measure the volume of your limb. This process can accurately calculate how swollen your affected limb is.
Bioimpedance test
During a bioimpedance test, electrodes (small metallic discs) are placed on different parts of your body. The electrodes release a small and painless electric charge that is measured using a handheld device. Changes in the strength of the current can indicate the presence of fluid in your tissue.
Imaging tests
Imaging tests may also be used to help with the diagnosis. These include:
- a lymphoscintigraph – where you are injected with a radioactive dye that can be tracked using a special scanner, this shows how the dye moves through your lymphatic system and can check for any blockages
- a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan – which uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of your body
- an ultrasound scan – which uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the inside of your body
- a computerised (axial) tomography (CT or CAT) scan – which uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the veins or lymph nodes
These scans can be used to create a clearer picture of the affected tissue. They are also useful for ruling out another condition called lipoedema. Lipoedema is swelling of the limbs as a result of abnormal fat deposits.
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