Main findings

• The authors conducted a systematic review of publications assessing the use of viral vectors for gene transfer in lymphedema treatment. They hypothesized that viral vectors are an effective way to deliver targeted therapy in lymphedema treatment.
• Research on targeted therapies in lymphedema treatment has been increasing considerably over the years.
• The publications assessing the use of viral vectors for gene transfer in lymphedema treatment demonstrated that it is an effective mechanism of delivering targeted therapies.
• To date, all experiments pursued gene transfer, and most used growth factors to induce lymphangiogenesis. Although encouraging outcomes were seen, all studies to date have been experimental, so further studies are necessary to translate those therapies into clinical practice.