Which statement about the management of lower limb lymphoedema is correct?
- A Complete decongestive therapy including multilayer compression is first-line ✓
- B Diuretics are the mainstay of long-term control
- C Early liposuction offers superior results to conservative therapy
- D Elevation alone for four weeks produces durable volume reduction
Correct answer: A. Complete decongestive therapy including multilayer compression is first-line
Explanation
Lymphoedema is protein-rich fluid, so complete decongestive therapy combining manual lymphatic drainage, multilayer short-stretch bandaging, skin care, and exercise is first-line. Diuretics are ineffective because they remove water but leave interstitial protein, and they are the classic distractor. Surgery including liposuction or debulking is reserved for selected refractory cases after failed conservative therapy.
Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 28th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.