1. Lymphedema

2. Lymphedema
Kathryn Peroutka, M.D.
Andrews/Patel Hematology/Oncology

3. Lymphedema Lymphatic System Lymph fluid Lymph vessels lymph nodes
Protein rich fluid, usually clear

8. Lymphedema Onset often insidious Can be provoked
Often a nonpitting edema often involving the digits.
Symptoms before Signs

9. Lymphedema Can occur in days to weeks 80% will occur within 3 years
Can sometimes occur much later

10. Risk cont’d Reconstruction ? Immediate vs Delayed
Positive Lymph Nodes ?

11. Other risk factors
Obesity
Age
Heart disease/Hypertension

12. Impact of Lymphedema The way it looks The way it feels
The way it functions
The risk of infection - cellulitis

13. Issues Exercise Doesn’t increase risk
Flying probably not a major problem

14. Risk More intervention = more risk Lumpectomy Mastectomy
SLN (sentinel lymph node) %
ALND (axillary lymph node dissection) 20%
Radiation