Chronic scrotal lymphedema

Abstract

Introduction: chronic lymphedema is a condition of the lymphatic vessels. It can be primary due to lymphatic hypoplasia, or secondary due to obstruction or rupture of the lymphatic vessels. Among its complications are those of infectious type such as lymphangitis, trophic disorders and neoplasms.

Objective: to present the case of a patient with chronic primary scrotal lymphedema and elephantiasis in the left lower limb, of importance due to the repercussion of socio-family living conditions in its evolution.

Case presentation: male patient, white, 57 years old, with increased volume in both lower extremities -major in the left- and in the scrotum. It presents an ulcerous lesion in the testes, with malodorous yellowish-green secretion, fever, weight loss and inappetence. He was treated with antibiotics, local cures and proper nutrition. In view of the improvement of the lesion, it was decided to discharge him, with prophylactic recommendations.

Discussion: the disease of this patient began at seven years of age, so it is an early primary lymphedema. No genetic or genealogical family studies were carried out. The condition of recurrent acute lymphangitis and the severity of the disease, causing total disability, were the most outstanding clinical features.

Conclusions: the treatment of chronic lymphedema is not curative, and in the case of this patient its socio-familiar isolation conditions hinder a sustained improvement. Hence, prophylactic measures were indicated to prevent the progression and worsening of his disease