Prospective Screening for Breast Cancer-related Lymphedema

Launched by MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · Jan 26, 2012

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on understanding and improving how breast cancer affects patients' arms, specifically looking for a condition called lymphedema, which can cause swelling and discomfort. Researchers want to see how treatment changes patients' symptoms, daily activities, and overall quality of life. They will collect information from patients through surveys and measurements taken during and after treatment. The goal is to detect lymphedema early, which can help in managing the condition better.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must have a confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer and be able to perform certain physical positions for measurements. Unfortunately, individuals with advanced cancer, previous breast cancer, or certain medical conditions that cause swelling cannot participate. If you join the study, you can expect to have your symptoms and arm measurements taken regularly, and your experiences will contribute to better understanding and treatment of lymphedema in breast cancer survivors.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer
• • Ability to obtain physical positioning for perometry (e.g. abducting shoulder to 90 degrees) and BIS measurements (e.g. standing without aid)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Evidence of distant metastatic disease that may cause edema,
• • Previous breast cancer
• • History of lymphedema
• • Pregnancy at the time of accrual and/or cardiac implants (contraindications for BIS)
• • Medical conditions that cause fluid retention or swelling (e.g. axillary cancer recurrence, renal insufficiency, congestive heart failure).