지방조직과 림프부종

Lymphedema refers to a chronic progressive disease that occurs secondary to impaired lymphatic drainage, which results in accumulation of interstitial fluid and consequent tissue swelling. Lymph stasis triggers a series of pathophysiological changes including adipose tissue deposition, fibrosis, and inflammation. Recent studies have reported the usefulness of microsurgical techniques in physiologic surgery to drain excessive lymphatic fluid even in cases of advanced-stage lymphedema. However, ablative surgery such as liposuction remains an effective approach for treatment of adipose tissue deposition in non-fluid dominant lymphedema. Further studies are warranted to gain a deeper understanding of adipogenesis in lymphedema to develop novel therapeutic and preventive strategies against advanced-stage lymphedema.