Which condition is similar to lymphedema but spares the dorm of the foot?

• A. Peripheral Artery Disease
• B. Phlegmasia Cerulea Dolens
• C. Elephantiasis Verruca Nostra
• D. Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Answer: (C)

The condition that is similar to lymphedema but spares the dorsum of the foot is elephantiasis verruca nostras. This condition is characterized by significant swelling and thickening of the tissues in the lower extremities, typically resulting from long-standing lymphatic obstruction. Unlike lymphedema, which often involves swelling of the whole foot including the dorsum, elephantiasis verruca nostras tends to affect the plantar aspect of the foot while preserving the dorsum. This is because the lymphatic vessel damage is usually confined, creating a pattern of edema that specifically affects the foot arch without involving the top portion.

Understanding this condition is crucial in phlebology, particularly in distinguishing between similar presentations of edema and lymphatic issues. The other options listed involve different pathophysiological mechanisms and do not share this specific pattern of edema involving sparing of the dorsum, which is key to recognizing elephantiasis verruca nostras.