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Stages of Lymphedema

Latency Stage:
  1. Lymphatic transport capacity is reduced
  2. No visible/palpable edema
  3. Subjective complaints are possible
Stage I (Reversible Lymphedema):
  1. Accumulation of protein-rich edema fluid
  2. Pitting edema
  3. Reducible with elevation (no fibrosis)
Stage II (Spontaneously Irreversible Lymphedema):
  1. Accumulation of protein-rich edema fluid
  2. Pitting becomes progressively more difficult
  3. Connective tissue proliferation (fibrosis)
Stage III (Lymphostatic Elephantiasis):
  1. Accumulation of protein-rich edema fluid
  2. Non-pitting
  3. Fibrosis and sclerosis (severe induration)
  4. Skin changes (papillomas, hyperkeratosis, etc.)