Post-mastectomy Lymphoedema
Post-mastectomy Lymphoedema is a side-effect of Cancer treatment. For women affected by breast cancer, it usually develops in the tissues under the skin of your hand, arm, breast or torso, on the same side as the cancer. As fluid builds up and the area swells, it can cause pain, reduced movement, serious infections, emotional trauma and reduced quality of life.
Once a women has undergone mastectomy, she is at risk of developing lymphoedema. Upper limb lymphoedema following axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) for breast cancer occurs in 16 to 28% cases. Rate of development of post-mastectomy lymphoedema varies from individual to individual. 75% of women develop breast surgery related lymphedema by one year post-operatively, and 90% by 3 years.
lympho node diagram
Pathophysiology
The lymphatic system comprises of a series of lymph vessels which carries lymph throughout the body. Lymph is primarily water, containing proteins and waste products. The lymph vessels promote unidirectional flow of the lymph fluid to the heart, using one-way valves to prevent the backflow of fluid. Enroute, the lymph fluid passes through lymph nodes, which are used to drain the lymphatic vessels and filter the lymph of any invading microbes/toxins. During a lumpectomy/mastectomy, the axillary lymph nodes, present under the arms are often removed. Due to the consequent lack of drainage, the fluid accumulates in the arm and breast area and causes swelling.
Symptoms
- Discomfort or ache in the arm
- Swelling in the arm, shoulder or breast area
- Heaviness and difficulty in movement
- Changes in skin texture like redness, roughness etc
Precautions
- Treat any wound/burn immediately
- Avoid constrictive clothing
- Protect the limb from any kind of injury
- Manicure nails carefully