Lymphoedema to lipodema??

[Carolpa]

If i had secondary arm lymphoedema subsequent to breast cancer surgery which was then mis/inadequately managed could it develop into lipoedema? I have no swelling anywhere else but my arm is now huge (size22 whilst i am size16). The lymphoedema team are denying responsibilty but there have been various lymph probs and mismanagement in our health board atea. I dont want to sue anyone but if thats what it takes to get treatment then so be it.

[Lynora]

Have they suggested a regime of CDT or DLT? (Combined decongestive therapy or decongestive lymph therapy)? If the lymphoedema clinic do this, the arm should respond and reduce following a period of multi layer bandaging. An unmanaged arm lymphoedema can develop what is known as a ‘brawny’ layer - not a true Lipoedema, but a layer of fatty tissue.

[Hidden]

Rather the other way round, Lipoedema can make treating Lymphoedma difficult.