Lymphangiectasia

Lymphangiectasia (pronounced lim-fan-je-ek-ta-ze-a) is a medical condition characterized by the dilation or enlargement of the lymphatic vessels.

Etymology

The term "Lymphangiectasia" is derived from three Greek words: "lymph" meaning water, "angeion" meaning vessel, and "ektasis" meaning dilation.

Definition

Lymphangiectasia is a pathologic dilation of lymph vessels. When the lymph vessels become blocked, they can become dilated, leading to a condition known as lymphangiectasia. This can occur in any part of the body but is most commonly found in the intestines, particularly the duodenum.

Symptoms

Symptoms of lymphangiectasia can vary depending on the location and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malabsorption of nutrients leading to weight loss and malnutrition. In severe cases, lymphangiectasia can lead to lymphedema, a condition characterized by swelling in the arms and legs due to a blockage in the lymphatic system.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of lymphangiectasia often involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests such as endoscopy or biopsy. Imaging tests such as CT scan or MRI may also be used to visualize the lymphatic system and identify areas of dilation.

Treatment

Treatment for lymphangiectasia typically involves managing the symptoms and preventing complications. This may include dietary modifications, medication to control symptoms, and in some cases, surgery to remove or bypass the affected lymph vessels.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Lymphangiectasia
Wikipedia's article - Lymphangiectasia

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Lymphangiectasia