Massive localised lymphoedema: clinical presentation and MR imaging characteristics.
Three morbidly obese women were referred to us with suspected soft-tissue sarcomas. All lesions arose from the medial subcutaneous tissues of the thigh, and were shown to represent massive localised lymphoedema (MLL), a rare condition occurring in morbidly obese adults. MR imaging typically demonstrates a sharply demarcated, pedunculated mass consisting of fat partitioned by fibrous septae surrounded by a thickened dermis. There is oedema both within the mass and tracking along the subcutaneous septae in a "lace-like" fashion outwards from the pedicle, outlining large lobules of fat. Minimal enhancement is observed within the dermis of the lesion following intravenous gadolinium administration. Obesity is a growing problem that is likely to result in an increase in the prevalence of this condition; therefore, familiarity with the radiological appearance is important in establishing a correct diagnosis in this condition that may mimic a soft-tissue sarcoma.
Department of Clinical Imaging, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK. monica.khanna@imperial.nhs.uk
Monica
M
Khanna
Ali M
AM
Naraghi
David
D
Salonen
Rejpaul
R
Bhumbra
Brendan C
BC
Dickson
Mark J
MJ
Kransdorf
Lawrence M
LM
White
D005260:Female; D005682:Gadolinium; D006801:Humans; D008209:Lymphedema / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008875:Middle Aged; D009767:Obesity, Morbid
D005682:Gadolinium
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