Specific surgeries, such as surgery for melanoma or breast, gynecological, head and neck, prostate or testicular, bladder or colon cancer, all of which currently require removal of lymph nodes, put patients at risk of developing secondary lymphedema. If lymph nodes are removed, there is always a risk of developing lymphedema. Secondary lymphedema can develop immediately post-operatively, or weeks, months, even years later. This often causes infection and, subsequently, lymphedema. Another cause of lower extremity lymphedema is that resulting from the use of Tamoxifen.
Radiation can also cause skin dermatitis or a burn similar to sunburn.
Be sure to keep the area soft with lotion recommended by your radiation oncologist. Fibrosis found in Stage 2 lymphedema marks the beginning of the hardening of the limbs and increasing size. When lymphedema remains untreated, protein-rich fluid continues to accumulate, leading to an increase of swelling and a hardening or fibrosis of the tissue. Always carry antibiotics or a prescription with you when you travel. Treating an infection often reduces some of the swelling and discoloration.