The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in immune function. This system consists of organs, tissues, and vessels that are responsible for transferring a fluid called lymph into your bloodstream. A small portion of this fluid remains in bodily tissues, but the lymphatic system removes it and returns it to your bloodstream.
When the lymphatic system dysfunctions, lymph can remain in the body and contribute to swelling and other issues. For instance, lymphedema involves blockages in the lymphatic system. Lymph nodes can also become swollen for other reasons, including infections and cancer. Other conditions, such as lymphatic filariasis, are caused by parasites, while Gorham-Stout disease is believed to result from a genetic mutation. In some cases, medication can be used to reduce swelling and improve function throughout the body.
Targeted therapies are drugs that focus on the destruction of cancer cells without harming healthy cells in the process. These drugs can act on cells that have undergone genetic changes which cause them to spread throughout the body. Tumour-agonist medications, such as Entrectinib, similarly target specific genes and proteins associated with the spread of cancer. Doctors can also use immunotherapy to fight cancer, which entails using medications that induce a stronger immune system response to hopefully destroy cancerous cells throughout the body.
A type of parasitic infection, lymphatic filariasis is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Also known as elephantiasis, this infection can cause severe swelling, sometimes to the point of disfigurement. In addition to the discomfort the disease causes, it can also result in reduced self-esteem and ostracization from society. Diethylcarbamazine (DEC) is a drug that can kill both the microscopic and adult worms responsible for causing these symptoms. Most people tolerate DEC well, and side effects like nausea, fever, and headache are usually minimal.
Gorham-Stout disease causes an overgrowth of lymph vessels in the body. This results in the breakdown of bone tissue, which can lead to substantially reduced bone density. In addition to pain and swelling, Gorham-Stout disease also increases the chance of fractures in affected children. However, effects vary according to the part of the body impacted. Immunosuppressants and anti-vascular medications are often used to treat this condition. Immunosuppressants engage the immune system to target abnormal lymph vessel growth, while anti-vascular medications inhibit lymph vessel growth specifically. Children may also be provided bisphosphonates, which slow the rate of bone loss.