Clinical and diagnostic aspects of lymphedema.

Lymphedema is a chronic, progressive, and common but often unrecognized condition. The diagnosis of lymphatic disease on clinical grounds alone remains a challenge. Without proper diagnosis, therapy is often delayed, allowing disease progression.

Assessing the risk of recurrent venous thromboembolism--a practical approach.

Recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This risk is lowered by anticoagulation, with a large effect in the initial phase following the venous thromboembolic event, and with a smaller effect in terms of secondary prevention of recurrence when extended anticoagulation is performed. On the other hand, extended anticoagulation is associated with an increased risk of major bleeding and thus leads to morbidity and mortality.

Sensitivity and specificity of fluorescence microlymphography for detecting lymphedema of the lower extremity.

Fluorescence microlymphography (FML) is used to visualize the lymphatic capillaries. A maximum spread of the fluorescence dye of ≥ 12 mm has been suggested for the diagnosis of lymphedema. However, data on sensitivity and specificity are lacking.

Long-term clinical outcomes in patients diagnosed with severe digital ischemia.

Question Under Study: To investigate the aetiology and long-term clinical outcomes of patients diagnosed with digital ischemia.

Method: Data of 36 consecutive patients presenting with digital ischemia were collected in July 2000 to June 2001 from a vascular referral centre. Demographic data, aetiology, medication and treatment were abstracted from the medical records.

Endovascular aneurysm exclusion along a femorodistal venous bypass in active Behçet's disease.

Purpose: To report the endovascular repair of dual aneurysms along a femorodistal venous bypass graft in a patient with Behçet's disease.

Case Report: A 55-year-old man of middle European ancestry with Behçet's disease had dual aneurysms evolve along the proximal segment of a femorodistal venous bypass that had been implanted 2.5 years earlier for recurrent false aneurysm formation.