Estimation of Hand Function Impairment in Breast Cancer Survivors with Lymphedema

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most frequent cancers in women, and breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) is a common side effect of BC treatment. When the lymphatic drainage system is damaged, lymphedema develops, which further exacerbates swelling and leads to pain, an increase in limb circumference, a reduction in joint range of motion, and a decrease in the use of the affected hand for functional tasks. Handgrip strength is essential for performing upper limb functional daily activities. Less is known about the long-term effects of lymphedema on hand function. The objective of the study was estimation of hand function impairment in BC survivors with lymphedema. This study was carried out by randomly selecting 100 out of 1,200 women with lymphedema, aged between 40 and 80 years, and who underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy along with radiotherapy, were included in this study. The handgrip strength was tested using an electronic handheld dynamometer. The functional wrist and hand scales were used to evaluate hand function. The Michigan Hand Outcome Questionnaire (MHQ) was used to evaluate the hand's overall function. A statistical analysis was done using SPSS statistical software (version 23.0). Handgrip strength of the affected hand by BCRL when compared with the unaffected hand was reduced. Functional hand and wrist scale have shown very poor results of the affected hand when compared with the unaffected hand. Majority of participants in the MHQ were unsatisfied with the overall functioning of the hand ( p  < 0.0001). This study concluded that there was significant hand function impairment in BC survivors with lymphedema. BCRL had a negative impact on daily activities of the individual and also affected the mental, emotional, and social aspects. BCRL also had an impact on overall self-reported physical function and quality of life.