>>18833
Lymphedema causes significant skin changes due to chronic protein-rich fluid buildup, progressing from soft pitting edema to hardened, thickened skin (fibrosis). Early signs include tight, reddish, or itchy skin, while advanced stages (Stage III) feature severe thickening, deep skin folds, wart-like growths (papillomas), leakage (lymphorrhea), and high infection risk.