If your lymphatic system is damaged or a blockage exists, the fluid can build up in the soft tissue beneath your skin.
There are two types of lymphedema:
Secondary lymphedema is caused by another condition or disease that damages your lymph vessels or nodes. Secondary lymphedema may be caused by:
Primary lymphedema is much less common. It’s a genetic problem that happens because your lymph nodes or vessels either aren’t adequately developed or are missing altogether.