Lymphatic deseases: geriatrical epidemiological data: the role of rehabilitation

Background In 1994 the WHO showed about 140 millions cases of lymphedema (Table 1). Italian epidemiological studies report that primary lymphedema are more frequent than secondary. The localization of upper limbs recognizes secondary lymphedema; the primary ones can be located in lower limbs. 30-40 y.o. women are more exposed. In geriatric patients lymphedema is generally secondary and concerned with upper limbs (Mastectomy). In lower limbs it follows cervix carcinoma treatments (46%), urologic diseases (39%), melanoma treatments (6%), Hodgkin lymphoma (3%), venous failures etc. In geriatric patients lymphedema disabilities make previous pathologies worse and rehabilitative therapies are recommended.