Vasorum Lymphaticorum: From the Discovery of the Lymphatic System to the New Perspectives in Microsurgical Reconstruction and Patient Rehabilitation

Dear Colleagues,

Since its first description in 1787 by Professor Mascagni, the tiny but omnipresent lymphatic vessels have occupied a central position in understanding lymphedema. As the pathogenesis of most lymphatic disorders is not yet fully understood, this is an expanding research area; nowadays, in fact, this chronic progressive condition is still underdiagnosed and underestimated.

Primary lymphedema is the result of a development abnormality of the lymphatic system whose onset ranges from childhood to adulthood. In secondary cases, impairment of the lymphatic system can be caused by direct trauma, infection, oncologic surgery or radiotherapy. Lymphedema is not usually life-threatening, but it has a very deleterious effect on quality of life, causing restriction of movement, loss of body image and self-esteem, and an increased risk of infection.

Early diagnosis is relevant in order to set an effective physical therapy protocol and treatment. In the early stages of the pathological process, conservative and nonsurgical treatment can be advised, but in more advanced stages surgery becomes necessary. From conservative therapies to operations performed in severe and refractory cases, treatment of lymphedema remains a challenge.

Given the importance of a rapid and correct diagnosis followed by appropriate treatments, Medicina is launching this Special Issue to offer a broad view on this topic. Authors will have the greatest freedom and the possibility of presenting their scientific results to the international scientific community. We encourage you and your co-workers to submit your articles on this topic. Reviews and original articles dealing with the diagnosis, treatment or rehabilitation of lymphedema are particularly welcome, as are articles and communications reporting evidence and expectations from innovative diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, with a special focus on individualized approaches.

Prof. Dr. Emanuele Cigna
Dr. Luigi Losco
Dr. Alberto Bolletta
Guest Editors

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