Diagnosis of Upper Quadrant Lymphedema Secondary to Cancer
Publication Date: May 5, 2017
Last Updated: March 14, 2022
Practice Recommendations Based on Patient Presentation
All Patients At Risk for Secondary Upper Quadrant Lymphedema
Self-reported symptoms of swelling, heaviness, and numbness should be investigated for early diagnosis. (, B)
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Palpation for fibrosis, pitting, and overall tissue quality may be clinically helpful for staging; however, it has not been investigated for diagnostic purposes. (, D)
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If a questionnaire is used to assist with diagnosis, the Norman Questionnaire or Morbidity Screening Tool should be considered. (, B)
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Title
Diagnosis of Upper Quadrant Lymphedema Secondary to Cancer
Authoring Organization
American Physical Therapy Association