Lymphedema Tests

Lymphedema evaluation and diagnosis

Prior to your cancer treatment our certified lymphedema therapists will meet with you to collect diagnostic baseline measurements, educate you about how to reduce your lymphedema risk, teach you what symptoms to look for, and answer any questions or concerns.

During this evaluation your lymphedema therapist will ask questions and perform tests.

These include:

• Your cancer history and your complete medical history
• Detailed information about any symptoms you may be experiencing
• A personal history regarding lifestyle, work or school requirements, nutrition and exercise regimens
• A physical examination of the skin and soft tissues of the affected area
• Precise measurements of the circumference along multiple points of the affected limbs or area of the body
• Bioimpedance scanning: This test detects the amount of fluid in the limb. The device passes a small and painless electrical current through the limb and measures the level of resistance to the current. The higher the fluid content, the lower the resistance reading. The test is particularly useful in cases where visible symptoms are slight or absent.
• Additional imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography scans to rule out other problems that could be causing lymphedema