Lymphedema

Lymphedema is a buildup of lymph fluid, which contains infection-fighting white blood cells. The condition can cause swelling anywhere in the body, including the arm, hand, leg, or foot. Lymphedema is most commonly caused by the removal of or damage to lymph nodes during treatment for cancer, though some people are born with it. There is no cure for lymphedema, and so doctors focus on managing the symptoms.

At NYU Langone’s Laura and Isaac Perlmutter Cancer Center, Rusk Rehabilitation, and Vein Center, our specialists are experts at diagnosing and managing lymphedema.