A 58-year-old woman returns 6 months after lumpectomy, axillary node dissection, radiation, and endocrine therapy for breast cancer. She has mild

Question

A 58-year-old woman returns 6 months after lumpectomy, axillary node dissection, radiation, and endocrine therapy for breast cancer. She has mild ipsilateral arm swelling and heaviness. There is no erythema, fever, or new mass. Which of the following would you recommend at the follow-up visit?

Accepted Answer

Refer for lymphedema therapy with compression and exercise guidance

Answer

Recommend arm immobilization indefinitely

Answer

Start broad-spectrum antibiotics for cellulitis despite no erythema

Answer

Perform emergent mastectomy

Answer

Stop endocrine therapy because swelling proves recurrence

Breast cancer lymphedema — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

A 58-year-old woman returns 6 months after lumpectomy, axillary node dissection, radiation, and endocrine therapy for breast cancer. She has mild ipsilateral arm swelling and heaviness. There is no erythema, fever, or new mass. Which of the following would you recommend at the follow-up visit?