Fluid buildup occurs when fluid collects in body tissues or spaces where it normally does not. In lymphatic conditions, this often happens when the lymphatic system is unable to drain fluid effectively. Fluid buildup can vary in location, severity, and symptoms, and not all patients experience the same issues.
Where Is the Fluid Collecting?
Fluid buildup is usually described by where the fluid collects in the body.
Common locations include:
- Pleural effusion – fluid around the lungs
- Ascites – fluid in the abdomen
- Pericardial effusion – fluid around the heart
- Edema – fluid in soft tissues, often causing swelling
Less commonly, fluid may collect in:
- Mediastinal effusion – fluid in the central chest
- Retroperitoneal effusion – fluid behind the abdominal organs
- Lymphocele – a localized fluid collection, often after surgery or injury
What Type of Fluid Is It?
When fluid builds up in the body, testing helps determine what type of fluid is present. The type of fluid provides important clues about the cause and helps guide care. Not all fluid buildup is related to the lymphatic system.
Common types of fluid include:
- Clear or straw-colored fluid – often related to inflammation, infection, organ function, or problems with fluid drainage, including lymphatic dysfunction.
- Chyle – a milky, nutrient-rich lymphatic fluid that contains fats, proteins, and immune cells. When fluid is chyle, it means the lymphatic system is involved.
- Blood – fluid buildup may sometimes be caused by bleeding into a body space, such as after injury, surgery, or trauma.
- Infected fluid – In some cases, fluid may contain infection and require prompt medical treatment.
Identifying the type of fluid helps healthcare teams determine the cause of the buildup and choose the most appropriate next steps.
Why Fluid Buildup Occurs
Fluid buildup can occur for many reasons, including:
- Problems with lymphatic drainage
- Abnormal or fragile lymphatic vessels
- Increased pressure within the lymphatic system
- Inflammation, infection, or injury
In people with lymphatic malformations (LMs) or complex lymphatic anomalies (CLAs), fluid buildup is often related to underlying lymphatic dysfunction.
Chyle can sometimes contribute to fluid buildup in the body, but this does not happen in every case. (Link to Chyle leaks)
How Fluid Buildup Is Evaluated
Imaging is used to identify where fluid is collecting and help determine whether the lymphatic system is involved. Common tests include:
- Ultrasound – often the first test; does not use radiation
- MRI – provides detailed images of soft tissues and lymphatic structures
- CT scan – sometimes used for rapid or urgent evaluation
Further testing may be recommended based on symptoms and findings.
Management and Monitoring
Management depends on:
- The location of the fluid
- The type of fluid
- Symptoms and severity
Some fluid collections are monitored over time, while others may require treatment to relieve symptoms or address the underlying cause. Care is individualized and often guided by teams experienced in lymphatic conditions.
