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Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema
05:44

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema

Published on: January 12, 2017

Lymphedema. A significant health problem for women with breast cancer in Jordan

Basem B Morcos1, Firas Al Ahmad, Iyad Anabtawi

  • 1Department of Surgery, King Hussein Cancer Center, Al-Jubeiha, Amman, Jordan. bmorcos@doctor.com

Saudi Medical Journal
|January 10, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Breast cancer survivors frequently develop lymphedema, a condition causing arm swelling. While often mild, severe cases impact daily life, necessitating greater health worker awareness.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Clinical Medicine
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Breast cancer treatment can lead to secondary lymphedema.
  • Lymphedema significantly impacts patients' quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the incidence of breast cancer-related lymphedema.
  • To increase health worker awareness of lymphedema.

Main Methods:

  • Cross-sectional study at King Hussein Cancer Center (2004-2009).
  • 515 breast cancer patients (excluding bilateral cases) completed symptom questionnaires.
  • Lymphedema defined by a ≥2 cm difference in upper limb girth.

Main Results:

  • Lymphedema incidence was 21.1% (patient-reported 35%).
  • 75.3% experienced limb symptoms (pain, numbness, limited movement).
  • 15.6% of lymphedema cases had severe effects on daily activities.

Conclusions:

  • Lymphedema remains a prevalent issue in the region.
  • While often mild, lymphedema can severely affect daily activities.
  • Health worker education on lymphedema significance and morbidity is crucial.
Abstract

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