CLT Lymphedema Pathophysiology & Staging

Question 1

Lymphedema is defined as swelling caused by:

Accepted Answer

Accumulation of protein-rich fluid due to lymphatic insufficiency

Answer

Lymphedema results from the accumulation of protein-rich interstitial fluid when lymphatic transport capacity is insufficient to handle the lymphatic load.

Question 2

What is the difference between primary and secondary lymphedema?

Accepted Answer

Primary results from developmental lymphatic abnormalities; secondary results from damage to an intact system

Answer

Primary lymphedema results from congenital or developmental abnormalities of lymphatic vessels, while secondary lymphedema occurs when an otherwise normal system is damaged.

Question 3

According to the International Society of Lymphology (ISL), Stage 0 lymphedema is characterized by:

Accepted Answer

Latent or subclinical condition with no visible swelling despite impaired transport

Answer

ISL Stage 0 (latent stage) describes lymphatic dysfunction without visible edema, where transport capacity is reduced but not yet overwhelmed.

Question 4

Pitting edema in lymphedema is most characteristic of which ISL stage?

Accepted Answer

Stage I

Answer

ISL Stage I lymphedema presents with pitting edema that reduces with limb elevation, indicating primarily fluid accumulation without significant fibrosis.

Question 5

The Stemmer sign is used to assess lymphedema by:

Accepted Answer

Attempting to pinch a fold of skin at the base of the second toe or finger

Answer

A positive Stemmer sign occurs when you cannot pinch and lift a fold of skin at the base of the second toe or finger due to fibrotic skin thickening.

CLT - Certified Lymphatic Therapist Practice Test

CLT - Certified Lymphatic Therapist Practice Test

CLT Lymphedema Pathophysiology & Staging