Director Lymphedema Center Lymphedema Center SANTA MONICA, California
Disclosure: I do not have any relevant financial / non-financial relationships with any proprietary interests.
Introduction, Objectives, and/or Purpose: The aim of the study is to demonstrate the sonographic differences of skin and subcutaneous fat in lymphedema lower extremities and Lipedema.
Methods: 36 patients with lipedema (72 legs), 21 patients with unilateral lymphedema and 11 controlled were included in this study. Ultrasound examinations were carried on with Terason 3000, 15 MHz probe at 3 levels, lateral thigh, calf and ankle for each lower extremity. The images of the skin and subcutaneous fat were analyzed.
Results: Mean skin thickness of the ankle was greatest in the lymphedema group compared to those with lipedema or controlled. Mean thickness of the subcutaneous fat layer of the thigh was greatest in those with lipedema.
Conclusion(s): Lymphedema appears to be associated with increased skin thickness and dermal hypoechogenicity more in the distal lower extremity in comparison to lipedema or controls. Lipedema is associated with increased thickness and hypoechogenicity of the subcutaneous fat. These findings suggest that ultrasound may be an effective tool to differentiate lipedema from lymphedema and may be valuable for treatment improvement.
