Morbidity Management of Edema Leg: Monograph

Lymphatic filariasis is a major cause of disfigurement and disability in endemic areas, leading to significant economic and psychosocial impact. It is the second leading cause of disability worldwide. Globally, 1.3 billion people are estimated to be at risk of infection. It is usually acquired in early childhood and is responsible for considerable morbidity, causing social stigma among men, women, and children. Chronic lower limb swelling is frequently encountered in clinical practice. Recurrent lymphangitis due to Wuchereria bancrofti infection and chronic venous insufficiency is most common. Lower extremity chronic venous disorders encompass an entire spectrum of morphologic and functional abnormalities of the venous system. The majority of symptomatic patients should undergo venous duplex ultrasonography to evaluate the nature and extent of venous reflux, which impacts the choice of treatment. Any combination of the superficial, perforator, or deep venous reflux can be present. Lymphedema shares many clinical features with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Duplex ultrasound can demonstrate typical findings of venous valvular insufficiency.