Can lymphedema cause splenomegaly (enlargement of the spleen)?

From the Guidelines

Lymphedema does not typically cause splenomegaly, as these are generally unrelated conditions with different underlying mechanisms. Lymphedema is characterized by localized swelling in arms or legs due to blockage in the lymphatic system, often following lymph node removal, radiation therapy, infection, or as a congenital condition, as noted in the american cancer society/american society of clinical oncology breast cancer survivorship care guideline 1. The lymphatic fluid accumulates in soft tissues, causing swelling primarily in extremities. Splenomegaly, on the other hand, occurs due to various systemic conditions including infections, liver disease, blood disorders, or cancer. While both involve components of the lymphatic system broadly speaking, lymphedema is a localized drainage problem, whereas splenomegaly reflects systemic issues affecting the spleen specifically.

Some key points to consider in the management and understanding of lymphedema include:

• The risk of developing lymphedema is higher in patients who undergo full axillary lymph node dissection compared to those who receive sentinel lymph node dissections 1.
• Radiation treatment, especially to the supraclavicular lymph nodes or axilla, can cause or exacerbate lymphedema 1.
• Obesity is a risk factor for lymphedema, and maintaining a normal weight is recommended to reduce this risk 1.
• Supervised, slowly progressive resistance training may be safe and effective for breast cancer survivors with regard to lymphedema development and may reduce the likelihood of arm swelling 1.

If a patient has both lymphedema and splenomegaly simultaneously, they likely have two separate medical issues requiring different treatment approaches. Anyone experiencing symptoms of either condition should seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and management.

From the Research

Lymphedema and Splenomegaly

• Lymphedema is a localized form of tissue swelling resulting from excessive retention of lymphatic fluid in the interstitial compartment and caused by impaired lymphatic drainage 2.
• Splenomegaly, on the other hand, can be due to several mechanisms but is almost always a sign of a systemic condition 3.

Causes of Splenomegaly

• The most common causes of splenomegaly in the United States are liver disease, malignancy, and infection 3.
• Splenomegaly can also be caused by vascular abnormalities and hemolysis 4.

Relationship between Lymphedema and Splenomegaly

• There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that lymphedema can cause splenomegaly.
• However, it is possible that underlying systemic diseases that cause lymphedema, such as cancer or infections, may also lead to splenomegaly 2, 4.

Diagnosis and Management

• Diagnosis of splenomegaly typically involves physical examination and abdominal ultrasonography 3.
• Management of splenomegaly involves treating the underlying disease process, and in some cases, splenectomies or spleen reduction therapies may be performed 3, 5.