Abstract ES11-2: Current status of diagnosis, monitoring, and non-surgical management of lymphedema

Abstract

Abstract Lymphedema (LE) is a common but underreported complication of breast cancer treatment since most studies lack baseline and follow-up measurements or follow-up that is long enough to adequately record true incidence. Contemporary prospective randomized trials continue to document the occurrence of lymphedema after any axillary treatment and note that combination therapy with axillary surgery and radiation nearly doubles LE risk. Over the last 5 years clinicians have witnessed a paradigm shift in the diagnostic practices of LE with concerted efforts focusing on early detection as opposed to reactionary interventions. Controversy however has existed over how to define and diagnose LE and as such the literature surrounding diagnosis is heterogeneous with respect to incidence and recommendations. Existing guidelines emphasize the need for routine monitoring for LE and the critical importance of baseline, bilateral, and longitudinal limb assessments but do not embrace one measurement technique. A growing body of prospective observational data is systematically challenging the value of precautionary behaviors. Further, prospective randomized data demonstrates exercise does not promote the development of LE. Complex decongestive therapy remains the cornerstone of non-surgical LE treatment. With the NCI predicting over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the US by 2024, lymphedema is potentially a significant public health burden. Citation Format: McLaughlin S. Current status of diagnosis, monitoring, and non-surgical management of lymphedema [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr ES11-2.