Dermatol. praxi. 2026;20(2):54-59 | DOI: 10.36290/der.2026.009
Differential diagnosis and management of lower limb edema in dermatological practice
- 1 Dermatovenerologická klinika 3. LF UK a FNKV, Praha
- 2 Kožní klinika Vzhled, Orlová
Lower limb edema represents a common clinical symptom with a wide number of etiologies, ranging from chronic venous insufficiency and lymphedema to systemic diseases or life-threatening diagnoses like deep vein thrombosis. For the dermatologist, correct differential diagnosis based on patient history, physical examination, and, in indicated cases, imaging modalities is crucial. This article presents a clear diagnostic algorithm and management of lower limb edema in routine dermatological practice and specifically focuses on the treatment of venous and lymphatic edema, which is based on lifestyle measures, compression therapy, venoactive drugs, and lymphatic drainage. Compression therapy is the most important modality of conservative treatment, without which neither phlebedema nor phlebolymphedema can be effectively treated.
Keywords: lower limb edema, chronic venous insufficiency, lymphedema, compression therapy, venoactive drugs, lymphatic drainage.
Accepted: June 8, 2026; Published: June 18, 2026 Show citation
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