What is lymphoedema?

Short answer Lymphoedema is a long-term condition that causes swelling. The lymphatic system normally collects excess fluid from the body's tissues including skin and returns it to the bloodstream. When this system does not develop normally or does not work properly, fluid builds up and causes swelling.

Primary lymphoedema is rare in children which means that less than 1 child out of 2000 will have the condition. Experts believe the true number may be higher because many children are diagnosed late or are initially mistaken for having another condition. The true frequency is unknown as for most of the rare diseases and can only be estimated around 1 out of 10 to 50 thousands.