Lymphoedema, lymphatic microangiopathy and increased lymphatic and interstitial pressure in a patient with Parkinson's disease

New microvascular findings in a woman with Parkinson's disease and lower le g oedema are present:ed. Microlymphography showed enhanced filling of the m icrolymphatic network with the fluorescent contrast medium comparable to th e findings in lymphoedema. The microlymphatic and interstitial pressures of the skin were increased (27 mm Hg and 16 mm I-Ig respectively). The increa sed interstitial and microlymphatic pressures are the result of insufficien t venous and lymphatic drainage due to impairment of calf muscle function d uring walking in Parkinson's disease. Manual lymph drainage and compression therapy, in combination with improvem ent of calf muscle function, resulted in regression of the oedema.