Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) Practice Exam

Which of the following statements regarding obesity and lymphedema are true?

1. Obese patients usually have decreased muscle pump activity due to decreased mobility.

2. Pressure from the abdominal wall onto the inguinal lymph nodes can contribute to the development of lymphedema.

3. Adipose tissue expansion causes a cascade of events that leads to damage of lymph vessels.

4. All are true

The correct answer is: All are true

Each statement about obesity and lymphedema provides insight into the relationship between the two conditions, which is why they all can be considered true. One key aspect is that obesity often leads to decreased mobility. When patients are obese, they typically have less muscle pump activity due to physical inactivity. This lack of movement reduces the effectiveness of the muscular system in facilitating lymphatic flow, which can lead to lymphatic stasis and increase the risk for developing lymphedema. Additionally, the pressure that excess abdominal fat exerts on the inguinal lymph nodes can impede normal lymphatic drainage, contributing to lymphedema. When abdominal tissue expands, it can compress the surrounding structures, including lymph nodes, leading to dysfunction in the lymphatic system. Furthermore, adipose tissue does not merely serve as an energy reserve; its expansion is associated with the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other substances that can harm lymphatic vessels. This cascade of damaging events can ultimately lead to compromised lymphatic drainage and the potential for developing lymphedema. Considering all these points, it becomes clear that each statement is valid, reinforcing the conclusion that they collectively provide an accurate picture of the effects of obesity on lymphatic health.