The present invention identifies genes whose gene products are differentially expressed in lymphedema tissues, particularly cutaneous tissue involved in whole organ response to lymphedema. The invention provides methods for diagnosing or assessing an individuals susceptibility to lymphedema. Also provided are therapeutic methods for treating a patient or methods for prophylactically treating an individual susceptible to lymphedema. Additionally, the invention describes screening methods for identifying agents that can be administered to treat individuals that have or at risk of developing lymphedema.
