CLT Lymphedema Pathophysiology & Staging

Question 1

Lymphedema is defined as swelling caused by:

Accepted Answer

Accumulation of protein-rich fluid due to lymphatic insufficiency

Answer

Excess sodium retention in kidneys

Answer

Heart failure and venous hypertension

Answer

Allergic reaction causing histamine release

Question 2

What is the difference between primary and secondary lymphedema?

Accepted Answer

Primary results from developmental lymphatic abnormalities; secondary results from damage to an intact system

Answer

Primary is always unilateral; secondary is always bilateral

Answer

Primary is more severe than secondary

Answer

Primary occurs in adults; secondary occurs in children

Question 3

According to the International Society of Lymphology (ISL), Stage 0 lymphedema is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Latent or subclinical condition with no visible swelling despite impaired transport

Answer

Visible pitting edema

Answer

Irreversible fibrotic tissue changes

Answer

Spontaneously reversible swelling

Question 4

Pitting edema in lymphedema is most characteristic of which ISL stage?

Accepted Answer

Stage I

Answer

Stage 0

Answer

Stage II with fibrosis

Answer

Stage III

Question 5

The Stemmer sign is used to assess lymphedema by:

Accepted Answer

Attempting to pinch a fold of skin at the base of the second toe or finger

Answer

Measuring circumferential limb differences

Answer

Checking pitting with fingertip pressure

Answer

Assessing skin color changes in the extremity

Question 6

Fibrosis in chronic lymphedema is primarily caused by:

Accepted Answer

Chronic protein accumulation stimulating inflammatory fibroblast activity

Answer

Bacterial infection of lymph nodes

Answer

Venous insufficiency complicating lymphatic flow

Answer

Repeated MLD treatments over time