The impact of radiation therapy on the risk of lymphedema after treatment for breast cancer: a prospective cohort study.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose/objective

Lymphedema after breast cancer treatment can be an irreversible condition with a negative impact on quality of life. The goal of this study was to identify radiation therapy-related risk factors for lymphedema.

Methods and materials

From 2005 to 2012, we prospectively performed arm volume measurements on 1476 breast cancer patients at our institution using a Perometer. Treating each breast individually, 1099 of 1501 patients (73%) received radiation therapy. Arm measurements were performed preoperatively and postoperatively. Lymphedema was defined as ≥10% arm volume increase occurring >3 months postoperatively. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate risk factors for lymphedema.

Results

At a median follow-up t

SUBMITTER: Warren LE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3928974 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature