Lymphedema in spina bifida: A case series

Abstract

Lymphedema is a chronic edematous state that can arise from any cause of low output failure of the lymphatic circulation. We herein present a series of three adult patients with spina bifida in whom the clinical diagnosis of lymphedema was also established. The diagnosis of spina bifida, with its attendant lower extremity inactivity, might intuitively suggest the presence of functional, dependent edema. However, imaging studies in one patient confirm a pattern of lymphatic malfunction that is virtually indistinguishable from the one that might accompany other, heritable forms of primary lymphedema. The important potential for lymphedema in spina bifida therefore warrants diagnostic scrutiny and therapeutic intervention in patients who develop edematous lower extremities, particularly in situations where the need for effective wound healing is heightened.