There are many causes of lymphatic obstruction, which is also known as lymphedema (swelling of the lymph passages). These include certain infections (for example, chronic cellulitis or parasitic infections such as filariasis), trauma, tumors, certain surgeries, and radiation therapy. In addition, there are rare forms of congenital (present from birth) lymphedema, which probably result from abnormalities in the development of the lymphatic vessels. In Western societies, one of the most common causes of lymphedema is mastectomy with axillary dissection (removal of the breast and underarm lymph tissue for breast cancer). This can cause lymphedema of the arm in 10-15% of patients. This occurs because the lymphatic drainage of the arm passes through the axilla (armpit), and tissue in the axilla has been removed during mastectomy. Recurrent cellulitis, or infection of the skin, can damage lymphatic vessels and lead to lymphedema of the affected area. This is more commonly seen in obese patients.
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