Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) Practice Exam

What is a common symptom of left upper-extremity lymphedema in a patient post-surgery?

1. Decreased range of motion

2. 3cm enlargement of the forearm

3. Fluctuating edema

4. Presence of collateral veins

The correct answer is: Fluctuating edema

In patients with left upper-extremity lymphedema following surgery, a common symptom to observe is fluctuating edema. This symptom indicates that the swelling in the affected area may not remain constant and can vary throughout the day or in response to various factors such as activity level, time of day, or even changes in temperature. The variability in swelling is often a characteristic of lymphedema, as the lymphatic system struggles to properly manage fluid distribution and drainage in the affected area. Fluctuating edema can also be associated with the lymphatic system's inability to effectively transport lymphatic fluid away from the extremity, leading to periods of increased swelling followed by moments where the edema appears to decrease. Patients might notice that their arm appears more swollen after certain activities or at certain times, and that it can improve with elevation or rest. Understanding this symptom helps healthcare providers monitor the patient's condition and tailor treatments, such as compression therapy or manual lymph drainage, to address the fluid redistribution challenges posed by lymphedema.