Lymphedema and breast cancer: a review of the literature

Abstract

Breast cancer continues to be the most common malignancy among women in the United States. Despite its high incidence, early detection and modern treatment have made long-term survival more common. One of the most important sequelae of the treatment of breast cancer is the development of lymphedema. There are many issues for women to deal with after treatment for breast cancer. Focusing on the quality of life after breast cancer means dealing with issues such as an altered body image, changes in relationships with partner and children, living with any ongoing side effects, and the fear of tumor recurrence. The objective of this paper is to elucidate these issues concerning lymphedema.