Understanding lymphedema

Abstract

Lymph nodes are part of the body's special circulatory system for moving and filtering an important fluid called lymph. This clear fluid comes from the blood and carries disease-fighting cells throughout the body. Lymph also contains proteins and salts removed from the tissues. When the lymph nodes are removed, injured, or blocked, fluid builds up in the tissues. This buildup—and the swelling it causes—is called lymphedema.