Assessment of arm lymphedema and late skin side effects in breast cancer patients who recieved postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy

Objective:To investigate factors leading to arm lymphedema and late side effects involving the skin in breast cancer patients who received postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy (RT). Material and Methods: Arm lymphedema and late skin side effects were investigated using the LENT/SOMA scales in 87 women with breast cancer treated by breast conservative surgery and RT. Results:Median age of patients were 52 years (range: 27-84). Factors that increased the risk of arm lymphedema included age >60 years, large RT volume, axillary dose ≥50 Gy and supraclavicular dose ≥50 Gy. Axillary dissection, dissected lymph nodes number >10 and lack of hormonal therapy increased fibrosis risk. Use of Co-60 machine for RT increased retraction atrophy risk. Axillary dissection, dissected lymph nodes number >10, and Co-60 use increased telangiectasia risk. Conclusion: In our study, to be over 60 years of age, large RT volume and high dose axillary RT were significant risk factors for arm lymphedema. Sentinel lymph node biopsy, small number of axillary lymph nodes dissected, RT by lineer accelarator reduced late skin reactions. Menopausal status, obesity, diabetes mellitus, stage of tumor and chemotherapy administration did not impact arm lymphedema and late skin side effects. © 2018 by Türkiye Klinikleri