Who is at risk for lymphedema?

The major lymph nodes of the body are located in the groin and in the armpit regions. Cancer, radiation, and/or surgery affecting any of these areas could cause damage to these nodes, eventually showing up as swelling or puffiness in the effected arm or leg.

Possible diagnoses include breast cancer, malignant melanoma, prostate cancer, gynecologic cancer and lymphoma. Sometimes traumatic injuries can damage lymph nodes as well.