Functional Assessment Using the LYMPH-IC Questionnaire and Severity of Breast Cancer–Related Lymphedema in Women: A Cross-Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55892/jrg.v8i19.2828Keywords:
Breast Cancer Lymphedema; International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health; Breast Neoplasms; LYMPH-ICF; Activities of Daily Living.Abstract
Objective: To assess the severity of lymphedema and upper limb functionality in women with breast cancer–related lymphedema using the LYMPH-ICF questionnaire. Methods: This cross-sectional, observational, quantitative, and descriptive study was conducted between June and September 2025 with 28 women aged 18 years or older. Upper limb circumferences were measured using perimetry. Lymphedema severity was determined by the difference in circumference between the affected and unaffected limbs and classified as mild (<3 cm), moderate (3–5 cm), or severe (>5 cm). Lymphedema stage was classified into four stages (0–3). Lymphedema-related functionality was assessed using the Lymphoedema Functioning, Disability and Health Questionnaire (LYMPH-ICF).Results: The mean age of participants was 58 years. Half of the sample was in the intensive phase of lymphedema treatment and half in the maintenance phase. Most participants had undergone axillary lymph node dissection. Regarding lymphedema stage, 19 women (67.86%) were classified as stage 2, while 17 (60.70%) had mild lymphedema. In terms of functional impairment assessed by the LYMPH-ICF, 13 participants (46.40%) were classified as moderate and 11 (39.30%) as severe. The correlation between functionality and treatment stage was marginally significant (p = 0.0736). The total functionality score showed strong correlations with the mobility activities and household activities domains (p ≤ 0.001). A positive association was observed between mental function and total functionality (r = 0.67; p ≤ 0.001). The domains of pain, skin sensations, immune system functions, and movement-related functions showed high correlations with mental function and total functionality (r = 0.62 and r = 0.75, respectively), with statistical significance. Conclusion: Women with breast cancer–related lymphedema present significant functional limitations, particularly in physical and mental functions, mobility activities, and household activities. Lymphedema severity did not directly impact functionality.
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References
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