Subclinical Assessment and Monitoring of Lymphatic System Function in Oncology Patients as Part of Physiotherapeutic Prevention of Limb Lymphoedema

Status: Recruiting
Location: See location...
Study Type: Observational
SUMMARY

Lymphoedema, a chronic condition caused by the accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the intercellular spaces due to impaired lymphatic function, is a common complication in cancer patients. It can lead to visible swelling, discomfort, and mobility issues, but most frequently affects the limbs. This condition not only impacts patients physically but also has significant psychological consequences, including reduced quality of life, social stigma, and challenges with returning to daily activities. Oncology patients are particularly at risk for developing lymphoedema due to factors such as lymphadenectomy, radiotherapy, and extensive surgical procedures. Up to 30% of breast cancer survivors develop lymphoedema, and it is also a common complication in patients treated for other cancers, such as those involving the cervix, vulva, prostate, and bladder. Despite the importance of early detection, diagnostic tools for assessing lymphatic dysfunction are often specialised and not suitable for routine screening in clinical practice. The primary goal of this study is to explore the early signs of lymphatic dysfunction in cancer patients before evident clinical symptoms, with the aim of identifying individuals at risk of developing lymphoedema. This will provide valuable information that could guide early interventions and preventive measures to reduce the severity or even prevent the onset of lymphoedema. By focusing on early, subclinical dysfunction, the study seeks to contribute to improving both the clinical management of lymphatic complications and the overall quality of life for oncology patients. Regular monitoring and timely physiotherapy interventions could play a key role in enhancing recovery outcomes and reducing the long-term impact of lymphoedema.

Eligibility
Participation Requirements
Sex: All
Minimum Age: 18
Healthy Volunteers: f
View:

• admission to the Greater Poland Cancer Centre for treatment in one of the departments participating in the study,

• age ≥ 18 years,

• ability to balance independently in a standing position for 30 seconds,

• obtaining the patient's written informed consent to participate in the study.

Locations
Other Locations
Poland
The Greater Poland Cancer Centre
RECRUITING
Poznan
Contact Information
Primary
Ewa Tańska, PhD
ewa.tanska@wco.pl
+48618850767
Backup
Janusz Doś, PT, PhD
janusz.dos@wco.pl
+48618850560
Time Frame
Start Date: 2025-01-01
Estimated Completion Date: 2029-12-31
Participants
Target number of participants: 600
Treatments
Main patient cohort
* 150 women with malignant tumours of the urinary and genital systems~* 150 men with malignant tumours of the urinary and genital systems~* 150 patients with malignant tumours of the nipple (breast)~* 150 patients with malignant tumours of the nipple (breast) and malignant tumours of the urinary and genital systems treated with brachytherapy
Related Therapeutic Areas
Sponsors
Collaborators: Poznan University of Physical Education
Leads: The Greater Poland Cancer Centre

This content was sourced from clinicaltrials.gov