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Sex Hormones in Lymphedema
Florent Morfoisse1, Audrey Zamora1, Emmanuelle Marchaud1
1UMR 1297-I2MC, Inserm, Université de Toulouse, UT3, 31432 Toulouse, France.
Cancers
|February 12, 2021
Summary
Lymphedema, a lymphatic vascular disorder, disproportionately affects females. This review explores the understudied role of female hormones, like estrogens, and hormone therapies in lymphedema development.
Area of Science:
- Lymphatic Vascular System
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Lymphedema is a chronic condition characterized by fluid accumulation and tissue changes in limbs due to lymphatic system dysfunction.
- Primary lymphedema shows a 3:1 female-to-male ratio, suggesting a role for sex-linked factors.
- Secondary lymphedema commonly affects women post-breast cancer treatment, often involving hormone therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of sex hormones on lymphatic system physiology.
- To investigate the potential link between hormone therapy and the development of lymphedema.
- To explore the under-researched role of estrogens and other sex hormones in lymphedema etiology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on lymphatic system physiology and sex hormones.
- Analysis of clinical data regarding lymphedema prevalence in relation to hormone therapies.
- Examination of research on estrogen receptor antagonists and aromatase inhibitors in lymphedema.
Main Results:
- The lymphatic system's physiology is influenced by sex hormones, particularly estrogens.
- Hormone therapies, including estrogen receptor antagonists and aromatase inhibitors, are potential contributors to secondary lymphedema.
- The precise mechanisms linking sex hormones, gender, and lymphedema require further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Sex hormones, especially estrogens, play a significant role in lymphatic system function and lymphedema development.
- Hormone therapies used in cancer treatment may promote lymphatic dysfunction and lymphedema.
- Further research is crucial to elucidate the complex interplay between sex hormones, gender, and lymphedema.
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