[Problems with arms are common after breast surgery. Lymphedema is a frequent complication in elderly women treated for breast cancer].
75 women aged 70 years or more at the time of operation for breast carcinoma were monitored regarding arm morbidity; median follow-up was three years. 19 women (25%) developed lymphedema; of these, nine belonged to a group of 12 that had undergone both modified radical mastectomy and postoperative radiotherapy. Of this group of 12, ten had impaired arm mobility. Approximately 30% of those with lymphedema had not been identified at routine follow-up, while 20% reported moderate to severe pain. 15 of the 75 reported numbness and pricking sensations in the arm; of these, only one had lymphedema, while six had impaired arm mobility. Having thus found that a substantial number of elderly women experience complications in the upper extremity after primary treatment for breast carcinoma, we feel it essential to consider these factors when planning treatment protocols.
Tengrup
I
I
Kirurgiska kliniken, Universitetssjukhuset MAS, Malmö.
Nittby
L T
LT
Christiansson
I
I
Laurin
M
M
D000368:Aged; D001132:Arm / Q000503:physiopathology*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008209:Lymphedema / Q000209:etiology*; D015409:Mastectomy, Radical / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015412:Mastectomy, Segmental / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009068:Movement; D011182:Postoperative Care; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology