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Piel y pelo

Lymphoedema and cutaneous circulatory disorders

A build-up of fluid in the tissues caused by failure of lymphatic drainage, producing swelling, usually in the limbs.

Moderate🐕 Dogs

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Swelling of one or more legs, painless at first
  • • The swelling leaves a pit (an indentation when pressed)
  • • Taut skin
  • • In chronic cases: skin thickening and infections

Causes

Primary (a congenital malformation of the lymphatic vessels) or secondary to obstruction, trauma, surgery, infection or a tumour.

Diagnosis

Physical examination plus imaging tests to assess lymphatic drainage and rule out obstructive causes.

Treatment

Treatment for the primary form is limited: compression bandaging, physiotherapy and infection control. The secondary form improves once the underlying cause is treated.

Prevention

Difficult to prevent. Treat any infections and injuries that may damage the lymphatic system promptly.

When should you see the vet?

See your vet if a leg swells for no apparent reason, especially if the swelling leaves a mark when pressed.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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