The Burden of Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema on Upper Extremity Functionality: A Comparative Analysis with Healthy...

The primary study aim compared upper extremity (UE) functionality between breast cancer- related lymphedema (BCRL) patients and healthy controls. A secondary aim compared UE functionality based on lymphedema stage. The study included 50 women with unilateral BCRL and 50 healthy controls. UE functionality was assessed using the following measurement tools: the universal goniometer for range of motion (ROMs), digital inclinometer for proprioception, Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SWM) test for light touch sensation, Upper Limb Functional Test (ULIFT) score for functionality and mobility, Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) for UE disability level, hand grip strength for peripheral muscle strength, and Upper Extremity Lymphedema Quality of Life questionnaire 27 (ULL-27) and Short Form 36-item Health Survey (SF-36) for quality of life (QoL). BCRL patients had reduced UE ROMs, UE functionality and mobility, hand grip strength, worse DASH score, impaired proprioception, light touch sensation and poorer quality of life compared to healthy controls (p<0.05). Significant between-group differences were detected in UE ROMs, ULIFT, DASH outcomes, proprioception, light touch sensation and physical and mental sub-scores of QoL assessments (p<0.05), while no significant differences were detected for hand grip strength, ULL-27 global score (p>0.05) according to lymphedema stage. Findings exhibited that patients with BCRL present with worse UE mobility, increased disability, loss of proprioception, impaired light touch sensation, and lower QoL compared to their healthy controls. UE functions and QoL may also vary between patients according to lymphedema severity.