Evaluatıon of sympathetıc Nervous System fındıngs and theır relatıonshıp wıth Symptoms ın patıents wıth Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema
Evaluatıon of sympathetıc Nervous System fındıngs and theır relatıonshıp wıth Symptoms ın patıents wıth Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema
The aim of this study was to evaluate the sympathetic nervous system, small fiber functions and autonomic symptoms in patients with breast cancer related lymphedema and to investigate the relationship between these findings and patients' symptoms.
This observational cross-sectional study aims to evaluate sympathetic nervous system activity, small fiber function, and autonomic symptoms in patients with breast cancer related lymphedema.
Electrophysiological parameters, including Sympathetic Skin Response (SSR) and Cutaneous Silent Period (CSP), will be recorded from both the affected and unaffected limbs using standardized neurophysiological techniques. Additionally, autonomic symptoms will be assessed using the Composite Autonomic Symptom Score 31 (COMPASS-31), and the impact of lymphedema on daily life will be evaluated with the Lymphedema Life Impact Scale (LLIS).
The study hypothesizes that sympathetic dysfunction and small fiber involvement may contribute to the pathophysiology of lymphedema and correlate with subjective symptoms such as pain, heaviness, and tightness.
Findings from this study are expected to provide insights into the potential role of the autonomic nervous system in breast cancer-related lymphedema and may support future consideration of sympathetic nervous system-targeted treatments.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria:
History of upper extremity lymphedema due to causes other than breast cancer