Stages | Characteristics |
| Latent or subclinical condition Swelling is not yet evident |
stage 0 | May be transient and may take months or years before overt swelling occurs (Stages I-III) |
Stage I | Initial fluid accumulation relatively high in protein content (compared to “venous” edema) Decreases with elevation of the limb |
Stage II | Involves more changes in tissue structures that increase the risk of fibrosis, infection, and skin lesions. Limb elevation alone rarely reduces tissue swelling. |
Stage III | Lymphostatic “elephantiasis”. Locker sign is absent. Trophic skin changes (acanthosis, changes in skin character and thickness, subsequent fat deposition and fibrosis. |