An audit of non-cancer-related lymphoedema in a hospice setting

The morbidity of non-cancer-related lymphoedema is becoming more generally recognized, but current treatment and research remain focused on cancer patients, particularly those with breast cancer. From the commencement of a new lymphoedema service at St Giles Hospice, Lichfield, Staffordshire, in 1994, referral of non-cancer patients was also encouraged. Over a 4-year period, 218 such patients were seen, accounting for 24% of the total cases referred to the clinic. The treatment outcomes of all patients were measured using simple assessment tools devised by the authors. This article presents a retrospective audit of the results achieved with the non-cancer patients. The results confirm that these patients also obtain benefits from treatment, with improvement in many aspects of the quality of their lives. They should therefore continue to be provided with opportunities for treatment.