Lymphangiomatosis– This is a congenital medical disorder of the lymphatic system.
What Is Lymphangiomatosis?
Lymphangiomatosis is a rare medical condition which is thought to be congenital and has the potential to affect any part of the body. It is a medical condition of the lymphatic system. This disease does not affect the central nervous system as the lymphatic system is not connected to it but it can definitely affect other vital organs of the body like heart, lungs, kidney, liver etc.
How Does Lymphangiomatosis Affect The Body?
There can be development of Lymphangiomatosis in just one part of body or there can be a spread of the condition around various parts. It is very difficult to predict how the disease will affect from individual to individual. Lymphangiomatosis facilitates rapid growth of tumors if they are present in any part of the body; these tumors are usually benign but these tumors affect the normal functioning of the body.
As stated, Lymphangiomatosis can affect any part of the body except the central nervous system or the brain as these parts are not connected to the lymphatic system.
Some Parts Of The Body Which Are Usually Affected By Lymphangiomatosis Are:
Who All Are At Risk For Developing Lymphangiomatosis?
Lymphangiomatosis can affect anyone be it male, female, or of any racial descent.
Infants and young children are most susceptible to this disease. A diagnosis of Lymphangiomatosis is usually confirmed by the time an affected individual turns 20 years of age. Lymphangiomatosis is a rare condition and it is difficult to pinpoint as to who will be at definite risk for development of the disease.
What Are The Symptoms Of Lymphangiomatosis?
An individual with Lymphangiomatosis will have a variety of symptoms depending on what part of the body or which organ system is affected by it and also the severity of the condition.
Some Of The Symptoms Where Lymphangiomatosis Affects The Lungs Are:
- Dry Cough
- Trouble breathing or Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Chest pressure
- Pain in the chest
- Coughing up blood
How Is Lymphangiomatosis Diagnosed?
In order to definitively diagnose Lymphangiomatosis, a variety of specialists will have to work in coordination as this disease affects multiple organ systems at one time and causing different symptoms. Some of the tests conducted are:
- Radiological studies like X-rays, MRI and CT scans of the organ system depending on the symptoms to look at their functioning.
- A biopsy of the organ may also be taken for confirmatory diagnosis.
What Are Treatments For Lymphangiomatosis?
The treatment of Lymphangiomatosis depends on the part of the body involved and the symptoms experienced by the individual. The aim of the treatment will be to reduce symptoms and calming down pain.
Some Treatment Measures Taken When Lymphangiomatosis Affects The Lungs Are:
- Drainage of fluid from lungs
- Removing the lining of the chest cavity surgically
- Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
- Radiation to shrink tumors
- Alteration in diet to include low fat and high protein
- Lung transplantation, which may be the last resort.
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