The Future of Lymphedema: Potential Therapeutic Targets for Treatment.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose of review

This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the pharmacological interventions studied in both experimental and clinical trials for secondary lymphedema.

Recent findings

Lymphedema is a progressive disease that results in tissue swelling, pain, and functional disability. The most common cause of secondary lymphedema in developed countries is an iatrogenic injury to the lymphatic system during cancer treatment. Despite its high incidence and severe sequelae, lymphedema is usually treated with palliative options such as compression and physical therapy. However, recent studies on the pathophysiology of lymphedema have explored pharmacological treatments in preclinical and early phase clinical trials.

Summary

Many potential treatment op

SUBMITTER: Brown S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10233555 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature