<p>Many milestones have been passed since the mid-1990s in the quest to improve the worldwide management of lymphoedema. For example, there have been huge advances in our understanding of the way genes determine lymphatic vessel behaviour. Karkkainen et al (2001) demonstrated how a specific gene helps the development of a mature lymphatic system in mice, and that this gene differs from those that promote blood vessel maturation. They also described how the gene also encouraged adipose tissue generation. People with lymphoedema are often obese, so this research has interesting implications for the treatment of the condition.</p>
