Lymphangiectasia: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Akshay Kulkarni , Gastroenterologists Medical

Lymphangiectasia is a rare condition where the lymph vessels become enlarged or blocked, causing fluid and protein to leak into surrounding tissues or the intestines. This leads to swelling, poor nutrient absorption, and other health issues. It can affect both children and adults and though it sounds complex, many people live well with the right treatment and care.

What is Lymphangiectasia?

This condition affects the body's lymph vessels, which normally help move fluid, fat, and immune cells. In lymphangiectasia, these vessels become too wide or blocked.

Lymphangiectasia happens when the lymphatic vessels, which carry fluid, fats, and immune cells through the body, become dilated or damaged, when these vessels break down or swell too much, fluid leaks into the tissues or intestines instead of being transported properly.

What Are the Symptoms of Lymphangiectasia?

The symptoms of lymphangiectasia depend on which organs are involved. Most people experience swelling, digestive problems, and signs of poor nutrient absorption. Recognizing these signs early can help with faster treatment.

Typical symptoms include

Swelling in the legs, feet, or belly
Ongoing diarrhea or soft stools
Weight loss or poor growth in children
Fatigue and muscle loss
Low blood protein levels
Puffy face or hands
Frequent infections

What Causes Lymphangiectasia?

Lymphangiectasia may be present from birth or develop later due to illness, surgery, or infections. The cause helps doctors plan the right treatment. Understanding whether it's primary or secondary is key to managing the condition.

The cause depends on the type

Primary lymphangiectasia is usually linked to abnormal lymphatic development before birth.

Secondary lymphangiectasia can result from:

Heart or liver disease
Intestinal surgery
Inflammatory bowel diseases
Radiation therapy
Cancer
Tuberculosis or infections

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Who is most at Risk of Lymphangiectasia?

Some people are more likely to develop lymphangiectasia due to genetics, childhood conditions, or other medical problems like heart or liver disease. Knowing the risk factors allows for early monitoring and intervention.

You may be at greater risk if you are:

An infant or child with a lymphatic birth disorder
Diagnosed with congenital syndromes
Living with heart failure or liver problems
Recovering from bowel surgery or cancer treatments

How is Lymphangiectasia Diagnosed?

Treatment focuses on controlling fluid leakage and improving nutrient absorption. Diet changes, medications, and sometimes surgery can help manage symptoms. Most people see good results with the right care plan.

Clinical Evaluation

Doctors begin with a detailed medical history, symptom review, and a physical exam to look for signs of lymphatic involvement.

Imaging Tests

Imaging helps visualize abnormal lymphatic vessels:

Ultrasound: A quick, non-invasive way to detect lymphatic swelling.
CT scan: Offers more detailed views of the lymphatic system.
MRI: Provides high-resolution images for a clearer picture of lymphatic structures.

Laboratory Tests

Lab work helps confirm the diagnosis and assess severity:

Blood tests: Can show low protein levels (like hypoalbuminemia) and other deficiencies.
Stool tests: Check for protein loss through the digestive system.

Differential Diagnosis

It's important to rule out other conditions that mimic lymphangiectasia, such as:

Lymphangitis (inflammation),
Lymphedema (swelling),
Lymphatic malformations.

Accurate diagnosis ensures the right treatment approach.

How is Lymphangiectasia Treated?

Diet Changes: A low-fat, high-protein diet can help. MCT oil is often used because it does not need the lymph system to be absorbed.
Medications: Doctors may give medicines like diuretics to remove extra fluid. They may also use albumin or octreotide to replace lost protein.
Surgery: Rarely used, but possible in isolated or severe cases that don't respond to other treatments.

When to See a Doctor?

If you or your child has swelling, digestive issues, or signs of poor nutrition that don't go away, it's important to seek medical help. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term damage and improve recovery.

Call your doctor if you or your child has

Persistent diarrhea or swelling
Sudden weight loss
Puffy hands, feet, or face
Frequent infections
No improvement with diet changes

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Is Lymphangiectasia Curable?

While it's not usually curable, lymphangiectasia can be well-controlled with the right mix of treatment, diet, and medical follow-up. Managing the condition helps prevent complications and improves quality of life.

With the right mix of diet, treatment, and monitoring

Symptoms improve
Hospital visits decrease
Quality of life increases
Long-term damage can be prevented

What Are the Complications of Lymphangiectasia?

Without treatment, this condition can lead to serious problems like malnutrition, poor growth, or fluid buildup in the body. Regular care helps reduce these risks and keeps you healthier in the long run.

Possible complications include

Severe malnutrition
Low immunity
Fluid around the lungs or heart
Poor growth in children
Bone weakness

Expert Lymphangiectasia Care at Medicover

We specialise in diagnosing and treating rare digestive and lymphatic disorders like lymphangiectasia. With advanced imaging, nutrition therapy, and coordinated care from experienced specialists, we help patients regain their strength and well-being.

At Medicover, from diagnosis to recovery, our focus is always on improving your comfort, restoring balance, and helping you live well every day.

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