Diagnosis and treatment of lymphedema in patients with breast cancer.
Lymphedema is a distressing consequence of breast cancer treatment affecting the patient in all domains of quality of life. Early identification and diagnosis are key to preventing long-term consequences. The goal of lymphedema management is to slow the progression and provide symptomatic relief to maintain quality of life. Preoperative education, intensive postoperative follow-up, and long-term survivorship care are important to minimize risk factors for developing lymphedema and to provide a mechanism for early detection, treatment, and patient self-care. An interdisciplinary approach, including nutritionists, physical therapists, psychologists, and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs), is essential to provide a patient-centered approach to the management of lymphedema. APRNs are critical in providing comprehensive assessments, ongoing follow-up care, and patient education in self-care strategies.
['McCaulley|Lauren|L|', 'Smith|Jennifer|J|']
D001943:Breast Neoplasms D042241:Early Diagnosis D005260:Female D006801:Humans D008209:Lymphedema D010348:Patient Care Team D010353:Patient Education as Topic D011788:Quality of Life
lymphedema quality of life interdisciplinary patient-centered