Factors associated with increased breast cancer-related lymphedema volume

BACKGROUND: Upper limb lymphedema occurs in approximately 15-20% of women after breast cancer treatment. We analysed the factors associated with lymphedema volume. METHOD: Cross-sectional study of 807 patients with secondary arm lymphedema was performed in a single lymphology unit. Data collected included patient characteristics, characteristics of breast cancer treatment, past history of cellulitis, Body Mass Index, delay from cancer to onset of lymphedema and duration of lymphedema. Lymphedema volume was calculated for each 5-cm segment by utilizing the formula for a truncated cone. Univariate and multivariate regression models were fitted to study the factors associated with increased lymphedema volume. RESULTS: In univariate analysis, factors associated with lymphedema volume were duration of lymphedema, Body Mass Index, mastectomy, and past history of cellulitis. Treatment with anti-estrogen drugs was negatively associated with lymphedema volume (p = 0.02). In multivariate analysis, factors associated with lymphedema volume were duration of lymphedema (p < 0.001), Body Mass Index (p < 0.001), delay from cancer to onset of lymphedema (p = 0.002), mastectomy (p = 0.02) and past history of cellulitis (p = 0.011). CONCLUSION: Early diagnosis and management of lymphedema, weight control and advices to avoid cellulitis are the main controllable parameters in women to prevent severity of breast cancer-related lymphedema.