Diagnosis

If you're being treated for cancer and are at risk of developing lymphoedema, you'll be monitored for the condition afterwards. Otherwise, see a GP if you experience symptoms of swelling.

In many cases, it's possible to diagnose lymphoedema by:

• asking about your symptoms and medical history
• examining the affected limb and measuring the distance around it to see if it's enlarged

The GP may refer you to a specialist lymphoedema treatment centre for further assessment.

Further tests

In most cases, further tests are not necessary, but they may occasionally be used to assess and monitor your condition.

Measuring limb volume

In some cases, tests to calculate the volume of an affected limb may be carried out.

These may include:

• using a tape measure – to measure the circumference of the limb at certain intervals to calculate its volume
• water displacement – where the affected limb is placed in a tank of water and the amount of water that's displaced is measured to calculate the volume of the limb
• perometry – where infrared light is used to measure the outline of an affected limb and calculate its volume

Bioimpedance testing

During a bioimpedance test, small metallic discs called electrodes are placed on different parts of your body.

The electrodes release a small, painless electric charge that's measured using a handheld device. Changes in the strength of the current can indicate the presence of fluid in your tissue.

Imaging tests

Imaging tests may also be used to help diagnose and monitor lymphoedema.

These include:

• a lymphoscintigram – where you're injected with a radioactive dye that can be tracked by a scanner; this shows how the dye moves through your lymphatic system and can check for any blockages
• a MRI scan – a strong magnetic field and radio waves are used to produce detailed images of the inside of your body
• an ultrasound scan – high-frequency sound waves are used to create an image of the inside of your body
• a CT scan – X-rays and a computer create detailed images of the lymph nodes

These scans can be used to create a clearer picture of the affected tissue.

Page last reviewed: Fri Nov 2022 Next review due: Wed Feb 2020