Basic Life Care for Cancer Related Lymphedema

Lymphedema is the accumulation of protein-rich fluid in tissues with inadequate lymph drainage and also a chronic, progressive condition without a cure. The purpose of this review is to provide information to assist the person with or at risk for lymphedema to make the best possible and most informed choices about risk-reduction practice for healthy lifestyle. This review differentiates people with a confirmed diagnosis of lymphedema from people at risk of lymphedema, individuals who have not displayed the signs and symptoms of lymphedema. Lymphedema is chronic and disfiguring. Despite the lack of evidence-based research on lymphedema, the Korean Society of Lymphedema clinical guideline is based on sound physiologic and clinical principles. In clinical practice, health professionals should inform both people with a confirmed diagnosis of lymphedema and at risk of lymphedema about their risk for lymphedema, guidelines to reduce that risk, and the physiologic rationale for the guidelines.