Cancer-associated secondary lymphoedema

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Lymphedema Pathophysiology
• Cancer Survivorship

Background:

• Lymphoedema is a complex oedematous condition often resulting from cancer staging and treatment, particularly surgery and radiotherapy.
• Approximately one in seven cancer survivors develop lifelong lymphoedema, characterized by limb swelling, inflammation, and fibrosis.
• The prevalence estimates for cancer-associated lymphoedema vary due to differing diagnostic criteria and follow-up durations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of cancer-associated lymphoedema.
• To highlight the impact of lymphoedema on patients' quality of life.
• To discuss current and emerging therapeutic strategies for lymphoedema.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of lymphoedema pathogenesis, clinical features, and treatment modalities.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria and surveillance strategies for early detection.
• Overview of conservative physical therapies, surgical interventions, and future pharmacological approaches.

Main Results:

• Cancer treatments like surgery and radiation are primary causes of lymphoedema.
• The condition progresses with increasing limb girth, fibrosis, inflammation, and skin pathology, increasing infection risk.
• Conservative decongestive therapy and surgical options like liposuction are current treatments, with promising future pharmacological and microsurgical options.

Conclusions:

• Lymphoedema significantly impacts cancer survivors' quality of life, causing physical discomfort and functional limitations.
• Early surveillance and diagnosis are crucial for effective management, with interventions most successful in early stages.
• A spectrum of treatments, from conservative physical methods to surgical and potential future pharmacological therapies, exists for managing cancer-associated lymphoedema.