Investigating lymph – a new challenge and perspective in breast cancer

Abstract

Worldwide breast cancer (BC) represents one of the most common type of cancer. Mortality from this disease is declining due to new therapies, but many patients face the side effects of cancer and treatment. The most common side effect is the lymphedema of the upper extremity. Although the incidence of lymphedema secondary to breast cancer is 63.4%, there are few studies on the immune mechanisms responsible for lymphedema and healing. Extensive research of the development, structure and function of the lymphatic system must be performed to identify the role of lymphatic vessels in breast cancer. All this can lead to discovery of new potential biomarkers in lymph in order to improve early detection and treatment of lymphedema and the current strategies for controlling tumor metastasis.

Keywords

• breast cancer
• lymphedema
• inflammation
• cytokines
• growth factors