Question
Recently, a student experienced skin allergy symptoms after changing classrooms, and was diagnosed by a doctor who prescribed antiallergy medication for treatment. However, the student later noticed a red and hot appearance on the face, which was not given much attention. The next morning, the student discovered facial and upper limb edema. What could be the possible causes of this edema, and how should it be handled?
Answer
The occurrence of upper limb edema is typically due to the destruction of the normal structure of lymphatic tissue after axillary surgery and/or radiation therapy, leading to disrupted lymphatic circulation. This results in the accumulation of lymph in the subcutaneous tissue, forming lymphedema. Once lymphedema occurs, it often triggers a self-amplifying vicious cycle, as the accumulation of protein-rich lymph in the interstitial space increases tissue colloid osmotic pressure, thereby causing edema. At the same time, this also stimulates fibroblast proliferation, releasing…