Cancer-Related Lymphedema: Clinical Pearls for Providers

Lymphedema is a chronic inflammatory condition that results from damage to the lymphatic system. Lymphedema is classified as either primary or secondary, the former being caused by a malformation of lymph vessels or nodes, and the latter resulting from trauma, chronic lymphatic system overload, or the sequelae of cancer treatments. In the present article, we focus on secondary cancer-related lymphedema (CRL), a potential survivorship treatment-related effect. Treatments for breast, gynecologic, prostate, and head-and-neck cancers, and melanoma and other skin cancers are most frequently associated with CRL. The incidence of CRL varies widely based on cancer location and treatment modalities, with estimates ranging from 5% to 83% in various cancers. Given the lack of a universal definition and diagnostic criteria, the prevalence of CRL is difficult to ascertain; current estimates suggest that more than 300,000 Canadians are affected by CRL. Here, we present an overview of CRL, divided into 5 subtopics: lymphedema risk factors; early identification and intervention; diagnosis and staging; management, with emphasis on the volume reduction and maintenance phases, plus patient support and education; and clinical pearls to help providers integrate knowledge about CRL into their practice.