Vascular Diseases as Differential Diagnosis of Lymphedema

Lymphedema is one of the common and important diseases in lower extremity swelling. A prompt and accurate diagnosis of lymphedema through the investigations to exclude non lymphatic causes is mandatory for effective treatment according to the patient’s clinical situation and staging. Vascular causes, including deep vein thrombosis, chronic venous disease, and congenital vascular malformation, are important differential diagnosis of lymphedema. Limb swelling following vascular diseases requires additional treatment including anticoagulation, endovascular treatment or surgery with different natural course and complications.