The Effect of Serum 25(OH)D3 Level on Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] levels on the presence and severity of lymphedema, and on the levels of pain, disability, and function in patients with breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL). This controlled study included 71 patients diagnosed with breast carcinoma. Participants were divided into two groups. The BCRL group included 37 breast cancer patients with lymphedema and the control group included 34 breast carcinoma patients without lymphedema. Demographic information, dominant extremity, affected breast, duration of malignancy, and serum 25(OH)D3 levels were recorded for all patients. The 25(OH)D3 levels were then compared between groups. The correlations between serum 25(OH)D3 levels and the visual analog scale (VAS) and Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (Q-DASH) scales and the volumetric and diametric differences between the upper extremities were analyzed in the BCRL group. Serum 25(OH)D3 levels did not show statistically significant differences between groups (p > 0.05). There was no correlation in the BCRL group between 25(OH)D3 levels and the VAS and Q-DASH scores or the diametric and volumetric differences of extremities (r ≤ 0.3; p > 0.05). Serum 25(OH)D3 levels do not appear to affect the presence or severity of lymphedema, pain, disability, or physical function in BCRL patients. In routine clinical practice, evaluation of this vitamin level does not appear to be necessary for lymphedema in BCRL patients.