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Updated: Jan 11, 2026

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema
Published on: January 12, 2017
Anatomy, pathophysiology and assessment of upper-body lymphoedema
Sandi Davis1, Suzie Ehmann2, Brandy McKeown3
1President, Davis Care Physical Therapy, New York City, NY, USA.
Abstract:
This article reviews the lymphatic system's anatomy and physiology, as well as the etiology of lymphoedema affecting the upper limbs, breast and trunk. It presents evidence-based strategies for assessment, including history-taking, physical exams and clinical tests to guide treatment planning. The importance of selecting personalised compression garments is emphasised. Legislative impacts-such as the US 2024 Lymphedema Treatment Act-and global variability in compression therapy funding are explored, along with nuanced approaches to assessment, staging and diagnostic criteria.
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