Lymphedema in Women Treated for Breast Cancer

PURPOSE: The purpose of this report is to discuss the etiologic factors, prevention, and current treatment options for lymphedema, which may occur after breast cancer. OVERVIEW: Lymphedema can develop in the breast cancer patient as a result of the interruption of lymphatic flow from postsurgical, postradiation, and infectious causes. It can present at various points after breast cancer treatment and may range from mild to a seriously disabling enlargement. Because lymphedema is permanent, the goal of treatment options is the control of edema, and a multidimensional approach to care is often needed. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: In the past, there has been limited research in this area. Because lymphedema is essentially an incurable condition, healthcare providers should be aware of techniques such as sentinel-node biopsy that could significantly decrease its incidence. In addition, it is important that each patient's treatment include education and prevention precautions.