In the absence of a gold standard, we can only say that the different LE definitions are not equivalent, but cannot say which is "best". From this data, it appears that 10% LVC corresponds to a more conservative definition, whereas the 2 cm difference corresponds to a more liberal definition. These preliminary findings also document the importance of baseline (preoperative) anthropometric and symptom data and monitoring of changes over time. Further investigation of LE occurrence over an extended time period is warranted.

The findings suggest that changes in sensations may be indicators of early lymphedema or other treatment-related sequelae that must be assessed carefully at each follow-up visit and over time. A combination of symptom assessment and limb volume measurement may provide the best clinical assessment data for identifying changes associated with post-breast cancer lymphedema.

Objective This systematic review aimed to evaluate the level of evidence of contemporary peer-reviewed literature published from 2004–2011 on the psychosocial impact of lymphedema. Methods Eleven electronic databases were searched and 1,311 articles retrieved; 23 met inclusion criteria. Twelve articles utilized qualitative methodology and 11 employed quantitative methodology. An established quality assessment tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Results The overall quality of the 23 included studies was adequate. A critical limitation of current literature is the lack of conceptual or operational definitions for the concept of psychosocial impact. Quantitative studies showed statistically significant poorer social well-being in persons with lymphedema, including perceptions related to body image, appearance, sexuality, and social barriers. No statistically significant differences were found between persons with and without lymphedema in the domains of emotional well-being (happy or sad) and psychological distress (depression and anxiety). All 12 of the qualitative studies consistently described negative psychological impact (negative self-identity, emotional disturbance, psychological distress) and negative social impact (marginalization, financial burden, perceived diminished sexuality, social isolation, perceived social abandonment, public insensitivity, non-supportive work environment). Factors associated with psychosocial impact were also identified. Conclusions Lymphedema has a negative psychosocial impact on affected individuals. The current review sheds light on the conceptualization and operationalization of the definitions of psychosocial impact with respect to lymphedema. Development of a lymphedema-specific instrument is needed to better characterize the impact of lymphedema and to examine the factors contributing to these outcomes in cancer and non-cancer-related populations.

CDT is seen to be effective in reducing lymphedema. This review focuses on original research about CDT as a bundled intervention and 2 individual components, manual lymph drainage and compression bandages. Additional studies are needed to determine the value and efficacy of the other individual components of CDT.