Articles

MINIMAL LIMB VOLUME CHANGE HAS A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS

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Abstract

We sought to define the incidence, risk factors, symptoms, and quality of life (QOL) outcomes associated with various degrees of postoperative limb volume change (LVC). A prospective cohort study was performed obtaining serial limb volume measurements using a perometer on 269 women undergoing surgery for breast cancer. Four groups were created based on maximum LVC: none <5.0%,mild 5.0-9.9%, moderate 10.0-14.9%, and severe 15.0%. Symptoms and QOL were assessed. 81 (30.1%), 70 (26.0%), and 14 (5.2%) women developed mild, moderate, and severe LVC, respectively. Increases in body mass index (p<0.001) and post-operative complications (p=0.002) were associated with increasing LVC. Lower QOL scores were associated with a moderate LVC (OR=3.72,95% CI, 1.29-10.73, p=0.015) and postoperative infections (OR=5.04, 95% CI, 1.73-14.70, p=0.003). LVC at 5.0% occurs in up to 61.3% of breast cancer survivors and is associated with a significant increase in symptoms and a change in reported quality of life.

Keywords: lymphedema, quality of life, breast cancer, symptom assessment

How to Cite:

Cormier, J., Xing, Y., Zaniletti, I., Askew, R., Stewart, B. & Armer, J., (2010) “MINIMAL LIMB VOLUME CHANGE HAS A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS”, Lymphology 42(4), 161-175.