Abscess

A collection of pus in infected tissue (or other body part), frequently surrounded by swelling and inflammation.

Acid mantle

A thin layer on the skin formed by skin oils(sebum)and sweat that protects against drying and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria, yeast or other types of fungus.

Acidophilus

One type of helpful bacteria that can fight yeast infections and combat side effects of antibiotics. Acidophilus is available from foods, such as yogurt with live cultures, or probiotic supplements.

ACOLS

Academy of Lymphatic Studies, a school providing training for lymphedema therapists.

Activities of Daily Living

Basic self-care activities such as dressing, eating, and toileting.

Acupressure

A technique from Traditional Chinese Medicine where pressure is applied to points to balance and increase the flow of energy or reduce pain.

Acupuncture

A traditional Chinese medicine technique where hair-thin needles are used to stimulate the flow of energy throughout the body and reduce pain or stimulate functions.

Adhesion

Scar tissue that abnormally binds surfaces inside the body.

Adipose tissue

Loose connective tissue containing primary; fat storage cells. Adipose tissue is a complex and highly active metabolic and endocrine organ.

Aerobic exercises

Activities that increase the heart rate and breathing.

Afferent lymphatic vessels

Lymphatic vessels that carry lymph into the lymph nodes where it is processed.

Allopathic medicine

Traditional western forms of medical care.

Alternative Medicine

Medical products and practices that are not part of standard care provided by medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy, and allied health professionals. Alternative medicine is used in place of standard medical care.

Ambulatory

Able to walk. Contrast of non-ambulatory.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

A law to assure equal opportunities for people with disabilities in all aspects of American Life. This and other federal laws forbid discrimination on the basis of physical limitations of medical conditions.

Anastomosis

A connection between tubular structures, such as lymphatic vessels. Surgery may create new connections.

Angiodysplasia

Abnormal growth of lymphatic of blood vessels including aplasia, hyperplasia and hypoplasia.

Angion

A segment of lymphatic vessel between two valves; also known as lymphangion.

Angiosarcoma

A malignant tumor of the cells forming the walls of blood or lymphatic vessels.

Anti-inflammatory diet

A Mediterranean eating pattern high in whole grains, fresh fruits, leafy vegetables, fish and olive oil.

Aplasia

The defective development, or the congenital absence of an organ or tissue.

Aquatic therapy

Exercises and activities performed in water, usually with a physical therapist or fitness instructor.

Arterioles

The smallest arteries of the circulatory system.

Arthroplasty

The surgical repair, or replacement of a joint.

Athlete’s foot

A fungus infection (tinea pedis) that frequently occurs on the feet and in between the toes.

Atrophy

Wasting away of muscles, usually.

Axillary

Pertaining to the armpit area.

Axillary nodes

Lymph nodes located in the armpits.

Bandaging

A form of compression used to control the swelling of the limb, to swollen fibrotic tissues, and to create working pressure to move lymph during exercise. Also known as wrapping.

BCRL

Abbreviation for Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema.

Bilateral

Affecting both sides of the body.

Biofeedback

Techniques for increasing awareness and control of bodily fluids using measurement devices.

Bioimpedance

A non-invasive method of estimating tissue composition and lymphedema using low voltage electric signals.

Body Mass index (BMI)-

A number calculated from a person’s weight and height. Comparing BMI to age related norms provide a reliable indicator of fatness that can be used to screen for weight issues associated with health problems.

Brachial plexus

A network of nerves extending from the lower neck to the shoulder, chest armpit, arm and hand.

Cellulitis

A common bacterial skin infection that appears as a swollen, red area of the skin that feels hot and tender; also known as lymphangitis. Treatment should begin promptly to avoid having the infection spread rapidly and become life threatening.

Cervical nodes

Lymph nodes located along the sides of the neck.

Chromosomes

The genetic keys to all of the body’s functions.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

A debilitating and complex disorder, of unknown cause, characterized by profound fatigue that is not improved by bed rest and may be worsened by physical and mental activity.

Chronic venous insufficiency

A condition in which the veins have problems sending bloods from the legs back to the heart.

Circulatory System

The closed system consisting of the heart, arteries and veins, that carry blood from and to, all parts of the body; also known as cardiovascular system.

Circumferential measurement

The use of a tape to measure the circumference of a limb at selected anatomic locations. These measurements are used to calculate limb volume and to fit compression garments.

CLT- Certified Lymphedema Therapist

Designation used by the NLN and LANA; 2) Comprehensive Lymphedema Therapy a designation used by Physical Therapists with some lymphedema training.

Comorbidity

The simultaneous presence of two or more chronic diseases.

Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)-

The system of lymphedema treatment that includes manual lymph drainage (MLD), compression techniques, and self-care training.

Compression

In lymphedema treatment, the use of garments and wraps to support the lymphatic system in the affected area, maintain progress made during manual lymph drainage and to control additional swelling.

Compression aids

A variety of pads with a layer of foam padding between cover of specialized fabric in a channel-like pattern to stimulate and guide the flow of lymph.

Compression garments

Specialized elastic knit two-way stretch sleeves, stockings, gauntlets, etc.

Compressure comfort bra

A specialized bra to meet the needs of women with chest and breast Lymphedema; also known as Bellisse Bra.

Congenital

An abnormal condition that is present at birth; this term is often incorrectly used interchangeably with hereditary.

Congenital lymphedema

A form of primary lymphedema that is present from birth; also known as Milroy’s disease or Nonne-Milroy disease.

Congestive heart failure (CHF)

A condition in which the heart is no longer able to pump out enough oxygen-rich blood.

Contour sleeve

A cooler, lighter version of the Reid Sleeve that is adjusted and held in place with a strip of Velcro.

Contralateral

On the opposite side; the affected area of lymph drainage.

Conventional treatment

A currently accepted and widely used treatment for a certain type of disease.

Cosmesis

The surgical correction of a disfiguring defect.

CPT Codes

Abbreviation for Current Procedural Terminology (CPT), a system of treatment codes developed and published by the American Medical Association.

Debunking

The surgical removal of excess tissue.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

A blood clot blocking a vein located deep in the body, usually in leg or thigh.

Dehydrate

To remove water or fluids from the body or moisture from the skin and mucous membranes.

Dehydration

A condition where a person does not have as much water or fluid as their body needs.

Delayed onset

The time between becoming “at risk” for lymphedema and the onset of symptoms.

Dependent edema

Swelling in the lower part of the arms or legs that may be relieved by changing position.

Edema

Swelling; abnormally large amounts of fluid in the intercellular spaces of the tissues.

Edematous

Swollen, affected by edema.

Efferent lymphatic vessels

Vessels that carry lymph out of a lymph node.

Elephantiasis

A term used to describe the extensive swelling associated with stage 3 lymphedema; another name for lymphatic filarisis.

Elvarex

A brand of compression garments constructed using flat knit fabric to ensure a better fitting garment that is more comfortable.

Endurance exercises

Activities that increase the heart rate and breathing for an extended period of time; also known as aerobic exercises.

Entry wound

Any opening or break in the skin that allows bacteria to enter.

Erysipelas

A skin infection that affects the subcutaneous tissues and lymphatic structures.

Excisional surgery

The surgical removal of a mass of tissue, using a scapel, laser or other instrument.

Exercise

Bodily activity that enhances or maintains fitness and lowers stress.

Exfoliation

The use of an abrasive, coarse soap or cream to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells.

Extracellular fluids

Fluid from the blood that flows between the cells, but is not located within the cells.

Fibrosis

The formation of fine scar-like structures that cause tissues to harden and reduce the flow of tissue fluid.

Fibrotic

Pertaining to fibrosis. Fibrotic tissues are harder than normal tissues.

Filariasis

A form of lymphedema caused by parasitic worms blocking lymph vessels.

Fish tank granuloma

An infection caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium marinum.

Fistula

An abnormal connection between an organ, vessel, or intestine and another structure.

Fungal

Pertaining to a fungus.

Fungal paronychia

A fungus infection in tissues surrounding a finger or toenail.

Fungus

An organism classified in the kingdom Fungi, which includes yeast, molds, mushrooms.

Gangrenous

Affected by gangrene or a similar condition causing tissue death due to lack of circulation or an infection.

Gauntlet

A specialized type of glove, a compression gauntlet leaves the fingers exposed and only covers part of the thumb.

Genetic

A condition caused by defective genes that may be passed from one generation to the next; also known as a hereditary condition.

HER2-positive Breast Cancer

A breast cancer that tests positive for a protein called human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). HER2-positive cancers tend to be more aggressive but treatments that specifically target HER2 are very effective.

Hereditary

A condition determined by genetic factors and able to be passed from parents to their children. Symptoms of hereditary conditions are not necessarily visible at birth but may appear later in life.

HNL

Head and Neck Lymphedema.

Hydrated

The state of having adequate fluids in the body.

Hyperemia

Increased blood flow to the body part or organ; can be caused by heating an affected area.

Hyperkeratosis

Abnormal thickening of the outer layer of the skin.

Hyperplasia

The presence of too many lymphatic vessels that do not function properly.

Hypertension

Higher than normal blood pressure.

Hypoplasia

The presence of a decreased number, or size of, lymphatic vessels.

Iatrogenic

A condition or disorder arising from a medical treatment.

Idiopathic edema

Swelling of unknown cause.

Induration

An area of hardened tissue.

Inflammation

The injury or destruction of tissue characterized by pain, heat, redness and swelling.

Inguinal nodes

Lymph nodes located in the groin area of the lower abdomen.

Intact skin

Healthy skin in which there are no breaks, scrapes, cuts, or abnormal openings that allow pathogens to enter.

Intensive

The phase of lymphedema treatment during which the patient is treated daily for a period of time based on the patient’s needs; also known as an intervention.

Intercellular fluid

Plasma that has left the capillaries and flowed into the spaces between the cells of the tissues.

Interstitial fluid

Plasma that has left the capillaries and flowed into the spaces between the cells of the tissues: also known as intercellular or tissue fluid.

Interstitial space

The fluid filled areas that surround the cells of a given tissue; also known as tissue space.

Intervention

The phase of lymphedema treatment during which the patient is treated daily for a period of time based on the patient’s needs; also known as intensive.

LANA

The Lymphology Association of North America.

Latency phase

The period between an event that increases the risk of lymphedema and the appearance of visible symptoms.

Left drainage area

The left lymphatic watershed or drainage area includes left side of the head and neck, left trunk, and both lower quadrants of the body.

Lesion

Tissue damage or other abnormality caused by disease or trauma.

Lip edema

A condition characterized by progressive accumulation of excess fat that is painful to touch and bruises easily. Typically fat accumulates symmetrically on the upper thighs and extends to the lower legs but not the feet.

Lipids

A type of naturally occurring molecule that includes fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins. Blood lipids include cholesterol and triglycerides.

Lipo-lymphedema

The combination of lipedma and lymphedema.

Lobules

Large rounded fat deposits that may be visible near the surface of the skin.

Long-stretch bandages

Specialized bandages that can be stretched 180%. These are typically used for sprains, contusions, and dislocations and not routinely used in lymphedema treatment.

Low impact exercises

Activities where body weight is supported a joint pressure is minimal such as walking, stair climbing, and swimming.

Lumen

The open space inside a blood or lymph vessel.

LVA – Lymphovenous Anastomosis

Is a microsurgical technique used to create connections between lymphatic vessels and veins with the intention of increasing lymphatic drainage.

Lymph

The clear, watery protein-rich tissue fluid found in the lymphatic vessels.

Lymph drainage massage

The technique used by estheticians or massage therapists to stimulate; lymph flow to enhance skin health in clients who are not affected by lymphedema.

Lymph node cancer

Cancers that start in the lymph nodes (lymphoma) or spread to the lymph nodes.

Lymph nodes

Specialized structures connected to the lymphatic vessels that filter lymph before it is returned to the circulatory system. There are 500 to 700 lymph nodes throughout the adult body.

Lymph veins

Larger lymphatic vessels that are formed when several lymph capillaries join together.

Lymphadectomy

The surgical removal of one or more lymph nodes.

Lymphadenitis

Inflammation or enlargement of one or more lymph nodes caused by infection; also known as swollen glands.

Lymphadenopathy

Any disease process that affects the lymph nodes. Usually indicates an infection is present; less commonly caused by an infection in the node, lymphoma, or lipid storage disorder.

Lymphangiectasia

Malformation and disorder of the lymphatic capillaries or collectors.

Lymphangiogensis

The growth of lymphatic vessels.

Lymphangioma

Congenital malformation of the lymphatic system.

Lymphangion

A segment of lymphatic vessel located between two valves; also known as angion. The structure of valves creates the string of pearls, appearance of a lymph vein.

Lymphangiosarcoma

A rare malignant tumor that occurs in long-standing cases of lymphedema.

Lymphangitis

An infection of the lymphatic vessels characterized by red streaks from the infected area toward the armpit or groin; other symptoms may include fever, pain, headache and enlarged lymph nodes.

Lymphatic

Pertaining to lymph or the lymph system.

Lymphatic capillaries

A fine tree-like network of tiny blind-ended tubes distributed in the tissue spaces under the skin.

Lymphatic drainage therapy

A gentle, light-touch, noninvasive that is said to have a beneficial effect on the immune and muscular systems.

Lymphatic ducts

Largest vessels of the lymph system. The thoracic duct and the right lymphatic duct return lymph to circulatory system.

Lymphatic filariasis

The form of lymphedema caused by thread-like parasitic worms.

Lymphatic malformations

Abnormal development of the lymphatic system that can affect any part of the body.

Lymphatic reconstruction surgery

Surgical procedures that attempt to repair damage to the lymphatic system from previous surgeries or tissues damages by trauma.

Lymphatic trunks

The larger lymphatic vessels that transport lymph to lymphatic ducts.

Lymphatic

Larger lymph vessels that are formed when several lymph capillaries join together; also known as lymph veins.

Lymphedema

A condition that occurs when the lymphatic drainage is impaired to the extent that the amount of lymphatic fluid within a given area exceeds the capacity of the lymphatic transport system to remove it.

Lymphedema-distichiasis

An autosomal dominant condition that typically includes lower-limb lymphedema and a double row of eyelashes.

Lymphedema praecox

The form of primary lymphedema in which the symptoms begin at the time of puberty.

Lymphedema tarda

A less common of primary lymphedema in which the symptoms appear in adults after the age of 35 years.

Lymphocele

A cyst-like mass containing lymph from damaged lymphatic channels following surgery or other injury. A pocket accumulated lymph at site of a lymph node removal.

Lymphocytes

Specialized white blood cells that are the main cell type in lymph. Lymphocytes play an important role in the immune system including killing pathogens that may be present in the lymph nodes.

Lymphologist

A physician specializing in diagnosis and treatment disorders of the lymphatic system.

Lymphology

The study of the lymphatic system.

Lympholymphatic anastomosis

Surgical treatment of lymphedema to remove accumulated lymphatic fluid by creating a connection (anastomosis) between lymphatic vessels.

Lymphorrhea

Lymph leakage through the skin; also known as weeping lymphedema.

Lymphoscintigraphy

Imaging techniques used to identify lymph nodes receiving lymph from a tumor; may be used to diagnose lymphedema.

Lymphostasis

Obstruction of the normal flow of lymph.

Malignant lymphedema

Lymphedema caused by impaired lymph flow due to malignant tumor growth or spread.

Manual lymph drainage (MLD)

Manipulation of the skin performed by a trained Lymphedema Therapist to stimulate the flow of the lymph away from the affected area and back into the circulatory system.

Massage

The manipulation of tissue to relax muscle fibers, increase circulation and increase patterns of chronic tension.

Meditation

Focusing the mind on something specific to quiet it.

Meige disease

A form of primary lymphedema in we=which the symptoms begin at the time of puberty; also j=known as lymphedema praecox.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureaus (MRSA)

A bacterial that is resistant to may antibiotics making infections difficult to treat.

Milroy’s Syndrome

A form of primary lymphedema that is present from birth; also known as primary congenital lymphedema.

Non-ambulatory

Unable to walk.

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma

any large group of cancers of the white blood cells.

Nonne-Milroy’s disease

One type of primary lymphedema evident at birth.

Physical Therapy

Physical Therapist (PT) helps people improve their movement and manage pain as part of rehabilitation and treatment for chronic conditions or injuries.

Pitting edema

When a swollen area is pressed and the pressure leaves and indentation (pit) that slowly fills in again.

Primary intestinal lympangiectasia (PIL)

A rare disorder characterized by enlarged lymphatic vessels around the intestines resulting in lymph leakage, protein loss, and lower extremity edema.

Primary lymphedema (PLE)

An inherited form of lymphedema that affects both males and females and can become noticeable at any time of life.

Prophylactic antibiotics

the administration of antibiotics to prevent the development of an infection.

Reid Sleeve

Custom fitted compression aids named for their inventor Dr. Tony Reid.

Resistance

Added pressure created when muscle movements press against a compression garment, aid, or bandage, enhancing the effect of muscle movements stimulating lymph flow.

Right Drainage Area

Lymphatic watershed that includes right side of the head and neck and the upper right quadrant of the body and drains into right lymphatic duct.

Right Lymphatic Duct

The lymphatic duct that carries lymph, from the right watershed and returns to the venous circulation through the right subclavian vein.

Scar Therapy

Treatment to minimize the negative effects of scars on lymph flow.

Secondary Lymphedema (SLE)

Lymphedema resulting from (secondary) damage the lymphatics caused by cancer treatment, surgery, burns, and trauma.

Self-Massage

A form of manual lymph drainage performed by the patient on his or herself.

Sentinel Node

The lymph node most closely connected to a tumor.

Sentinel Node Biopsy

The injection of a dye and/or radioactive isotope near a tumor and tracing lymph flow to the most closely connected lymph node (sentinel node).

Sepsis

A potentially fatal illness in which the whole body has a severe inflammatory response to bacteria or other germs.

Simple Lymph Drainage

(SLD) Skin manipulation using the principles of MLD but simplified for caregivers.

Stage 0-

The stage of lymphedema when swelling is not evident despite impaired lymph transport. This stage can exist for many months or years before the swelling becomes evident; also known as sub-clinical lymphedema.

Stage (1) – Lymphedema

With noticeable swelling and tissues that are soft to the touch.

Stage (2) Lymphedema

With swelling and hardening (fibrosis) of the tissues. The tissues are no longer soft and pressure leaves only a tight indentation.

Stage (3)- Lymphedema

In which there is major increase in the amount of swelling and the tissues hang in the folds as the skin begins breaking down. Fibrosis becomes more extensive and the amount of fat tissue increase.

Staphylococcus aureus

A type of bacteria commonly found on the skin and in the respiratory tract. These bacteria can cause skin and tissue infections resulting in life-threatening sepsis.

Swollen glands

Enlarged lymph nodes, also known as lymphadenopathy.

Tissue Fluid

Plasma that has escaped from blood capillaries into the space between the cells of the tissues; also known as intercellular fluid or interstitial fluid.

Truncal lymphedema

Swelling in the breast, chest, back or underarm area due to the buildup of lymphatic fluid.

Vasodilatation

Widening of the interior blood vessels resulting from the relaxation of the muscular blood vessel walls; the opposite of vasoconstriction.

Venous insufficiency

A condition where valves in the leg veins do not function properly and blood cannot be returned to the heart.

Wrapping

A synonym for bandaging.