Lymphoedema, lymphatic microangiopathy and increased lymphatic and interstitial pressure in a patient with Parkinson's disease
Husmann, M.J.; Roedel, C.; Leu, A.J.; Koppensteiner, R.; Franzeck, U.K.
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift 129(10): 410-412
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0036-7672 PMID: 10212975 Document Number: 500307
New microvascular findings in a woman with Parkinson's disease and lower leg oedema are presented. Microlymphography showed enhanced filling of the microlymphatic network with the fluorescent contrast medium comparable to the findings in lymphoedema. The microlymphatic and interstitial pressures of the skin were increased (27 mm Hg and 16 mm Hg respectively). The increased interstitial and microlymphatic pressures are the result of insufficient venous and lymphatic drainage due to impairment of calf muscle function during walking in Parkinson's disease. Manual lymph drainage and compression therapy, in combination with improvement of calf muscle function, resulted in regression of the oedema.