CLT Lymphedema Pathology & Staging 3

Question 1

Acute inflammatory episodes in lymphedema limbs caused by bacterial skin infections are called what?

Accepted Answer

Cellulitis/erysipelas flares

Answer

Cellulitis and erysipelas are bacterial skin infections (often streptococcal) that are more frequent in lymphedematous limbs due to impaired local immunity and protein-rich fluid.

Question 2

Stewart-Treves syndrome is a rare but serious complication of chronic lymphedema that involves development of what?

Accepted Answer

Lymphangiosarcoma (malignant vascular tumor)

Answer

Stewart-Treves syndrome is a rare lymphangiosarcoma that can develop in the setting of chronic post-mastectomy lymphedema, requiring urgent oncology referral.

Question 3

Volume measurement using water displacement (volumetry) is considered the gold standard for tracking limb lymphedema. What is the typical diagnostic threshold for upper extremity lymphedema?

Accepted Answer

>200 mL difference between limbs

Answer

A volume difference of greater than 200 mL between the affected and contralateral arm is a widely used diagnostic threshold for upper extremity lymphedema.

Question 4

Bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) is used in lymphedema assessment to measure what?

Accepted Answer

Extracellular fluid accumulation in the limb

Answer

BIS measures the resistance of electrical current through body tissues to quantify extracellular fluid, detecting increases that precede visible lymphedema.

Question 5

Which term describes the safety factor that prevents edema from forming despite minor increases in capillary filtration?

Accepted Answer

Lymphatic reserve capacity (safety valve function)

Answer

The lymphatic safety valve capacity allows the system to handle increased filtration loads by up to 10-fold before edema forms, compensating for minor disruptions.

CLT - Certified Lymphatic Therapist Practice Test

CLT - Certified Lymphatic Therapist Practice Test

CLT Lymphedema Pathology & Staging 3