Physical findings and tests useful for differentiating lymphedema

J Gen Fam Med. 2021 Feb 17;22(4):227-228. doi: 10.1002/jgf2.425. eCollection 2021 Jul.

Abstract

Stemmer's sign is useful in diagnosing lymphedema as it is present in 92% of the cases. Indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography is also useful for diagnosing lymphedema, and it allows them to see all the anatomy of the lymphatic vessels, leaking pumping capacity, and dermal reflux. The diagnostic ability of ICG lymphography and its evaluation capability for disease severity is similar to lymphoscintigraphy which is the gold-standard examination for extremity lymphoedema but with less invasiveness and a lower cost.

Keywords: Stemmer's sign; lymphedema; squamous cell carcinoma of skin.