Hong Kong Med J 2009;15(Suppl 4):S8-12
Risk factors for the initiation and aggravation of lymphoedema after axillary lymph node dissection for breast cancer
SS Mak, W Yeo, YM Lee, SM Tse, FP Ho, B Zee, E Chan
Department of Clinical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong
1. Previous inflammation or infection of the breast, chest or arm is a major risk factor associated with the initiation and aggravation of lymphoedema in patients who have received axillary lymph node dissection for breast cancer.
2. Surgery on the side of the dominant hand, obesity and ageing are other risk factors associated with aggravation of lymphoedema.
3. Patients who are at risk of developing lymphoedema should be educated about the importance of monitoring and preventing infection-inflammation, and seek medical advice immediately when signs of inflammation are noted.
4. Exercise regimens should target weight control and lymphatic drainage.
5. A threshold of 5 to 10% difference in arm circumference is significant as a means of predicting severe arm symptoms.
2. Surgery on the side of the dominant hand, obesity and ageing are other risk factors associated with aggravation of lymphoedema.
3. Patients who are at risk of developing lymphoedema should be educated about the importance of monitoring and preventing infection-inflammation, and seek medical advice immediately when signs of inflammation are noted.
4. Exercise regimens should target weight control and lymphatic drainage.
5. A threshold of 5 to 10% difference in arm circumference is significant as a means of predicting severe arm symptoms.