Lymphedema is a chronic and progressive condition, once present it will not disappear again. If left untreated it will have important pathological and clinical consequences for the patient. In stage I lymphedema, the swelling consists of protein rich fluid. In this early stage the swelling may be temporarily reduced by simple elevation of the limb. Typical for stage III lymphedema is an extreme increase in volume, additional hardening of the tissues and other complications, such as fungal infections.
Infections worsen the swelling and in many cases necessitate hospitalization of the patient.
Diuretics are often prescribed in order to control lymphedema. Unfortunately, diuretics have an adverse effect on lymphedema, further worsening the condition. Diuretics decrease the water content of the swelling while the protein molecules remain in the tissues. Another side effect of diuretics is an increased hardening of the tissues due to a higher protein concentration in relation to the water. Benzopyrones have been tried for the treatment of lymphedema for many years.