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Surveillance Protocols for Survivors at Risk for Lymphedema

  • Lymphedema Incidence, Prevention and Treatment (J Armer, Section editor)
  • Published:
Current Breast Cancer Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Breast cancer treatments introduce risk for developing lymphedema. There are identifiable tissue and sensory changes that are associated with the onset of breast cancer–related lymphedema (BCRL) that can enhance early identification and treatment of the condition. Therefore, there exists an unprecedented opportunity to employ surveillance protocols to monitor for the earliest signs and symptoms of the condition.

Recent Findings

Standardized methods for prospective surveillance have been investigated and show effectiveness in promoting early identification and early management of BCRL. Furthermore, there is emerging evidence that this approach can support broad assessment of physical function for individuals with breast cancer, improving quality of life and potentially reducing cost associated with treatment-related morbidity.

Summary

This article provides an overview of the prospective surveillance model (PSM), an optimal framework for early identification of BCRL in individuals at risk, shares implementation strategies across two different cultures, and suggests future direction for research and clinical practice to enhance implementation.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Hematology/Oncology, Cancer Prevention and Control, West Virginia University Cancer Institute, PO Box 9350, Morgantown, WV, 26506, USA

    Nicole L. Stout

  2. Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA

    Cheryl Brunelle

  3. Occupational Therapy Assistant Program, Huntington University, Huntington, IN, USA

    Nicole Scheiman

  4. Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan

    Habiba Thawer

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  1. Nicole L. Stout
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  2. Cheryl Brunelle
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  3. Nicole Scheiman
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  4. Habiba Thawer
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Correspondence to Nicole L. Stout.

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Nicole Stout, Nicole Scheiman, and Habiba Thawer declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Cheryl Brunelle is on the Scientific Advisory Board of Puretech Health.

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Stout, N.L., Brunelle, C., Scheiman, N. et al. Surveillance Protocols for Survivors at Risk for Lymphedema. Curr Breast Cancer Rep 13, 19–27 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12609-020-00402-y

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