Intermittent occupational-related lymphedema

José Maria Pereira de G

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to report on the occurrence of intermittent occupational-related lymphedema in sugarcane harvesters in Brazil. Clinical Features: Two cases of cane cutters are reported. The first is a 39-year-old male who reported that his right hand had been swelling during the course of the working day over the previous eight years and the second, a 48-year-old female, had noticed swelling on the back of her hand for five years. Discussion: These reports warn of decompensation of venous and lymphatic return during manual sugarcane harvesting. Swelling and pain may appear in workers due to repetitive movements with a negative impact on their work. The absence of escriptions in respect to sugarcane harvesting is because of a lack of clinical investigations. Conclusion: Cutting sugarcane can cause intermittent workrelated lymphedema. Further clinical investigations may help to improve the quality of life of workers in many different types of jobs that involve repetitive movements.

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