Chronic hereditary lymphedema

Chronic hereditary lymphedema (also known as Milroy disease) is a condition characterized by lower limb lymphedema. Patients typically present with pedal edema at or before birth or soon after. Occasionally, it develops later in life.

Pathology

Genetics

Mutations in the FLT4 gene are thought to be present in some cases. It is usually inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern.

History and etymology

It is thought to have first been described by Letessier in 1865 ¹.