Chemotherapy port related lymphedema after axillary lymph node dissection. (August 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Turfe, Zaahir; Pettinga, Jane; Leduc, Olivier; Leduc, Albert; Komorowska-Timek, Ewa
• Is Part Of: Breast. Volume 28(2016)
• Page Start: 145
• Page End: 147
• Publication Date: 2016-08
• Subjects: Chemotherapy port -- Mascagni pathway -- Lymphedema -- Breast cancer; Breast -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Breast -- Tumors -- Periodicals; Breast -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616
• DOI: 10.1016/j.breast.2016.05.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0960-9776

Abstract

Abstract: The Mascagni lymphatic pathway comprises superficial channels along the clavicle that drain upper extremity lymph. A 65 year-old woman with recurrent left breast cancer presented with a non-functioning chemotherapy port in the right deltopectoral groove. She had undergone right mastectomy with axillary lymph node dissection (ALND). After port removal and wound closure she developed right upper extremity lymphedema. Patients who have undergone ALND may depend solely on this pathway for upper extremity lymphatic drainage. Level of evidence: level V Highlights: Patients who have undergone axillary lymphatic surgery are at a significantly increased risk for upper extremity lymphedema. The Mascagni pathway comprises superficial channels along the clavicle that drain upper extremity lymph. This pathway may represent the only drainage pathway of the upper arm in patients who have undergone an ALND. Its disruption by surgical interventions can lead to upper extremity lymphedema.