Lymphedema in women treated for breast cancer Journal Article
| Authors: | Loudon, L.; Petrek, J. |
| Article Title: | Lymphedema in women treated for breast cancer |
| Abstract: | PURPOSE: The purpose of this report is to discuss the etiologic factors, prevention, and current treatment options for lymphedema, which may occur after breast cancer. OVERVIEW: Lymphedema can develop in the breast cancer patient as a result of the interruption of lymphatic flow from postsurgical, postradiation, and infectious causes. It can present at various points after breast cancer treatment and may range from mild to a seriously disabling enlargement. Because lymphedema is permanent, the goal of treatment options is the control of edema, and a multidimensional approach to care is often needed. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: In the past, there has been limited research in this area. Because lymphedema is essentially an incurable condition, healthcare providers should be aware of techniques such as sentinel-node biopsy that could significantly decrease its incidence. In addition, it is important that each patient's treatment include education and prevention precautions. |
| Keywords: | pathophysiology; cancer radiotherapy; lymphoscintigraphy; sentinel lymph node biopsy; oncologic nursing; infection; breast cancer; incidence; risk factors; patient education; practice guideline; breast neoplasms; surgical approach; postoperative complication; lymphedema; patient care team; severity of illness index; nursing assessment; physiotherapy; lymph node biopsy; primary prevention; diuretic agent; coumarin; bandages; sentinel-node biopsy; complete decongestive physiotherapy; humans; female; article; pneumatic pump; diuretic therapy |
| Journal Title: | Cancer Practice |
| Volume: | 8 |
| Issue: | 2 |
| ISSN: | 1065-4704 |
| Publisher: | Blackwell Publishing |
| Date Published: | 2000-03-01 |
| Start Page: | 65 |
| End Page: | 71 |
| Language: | English |
| DOI: | 10.1046/j.1523-5394.2000.82004.x |
| PUBMED: | 11898179 |
| PROVIDER: | scopus |
| DOI/URL: | |
| Notes: | Export Date: 18 November 2015 -- Source: Scopus |
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