Perceived Symptom Experience in Head and Neck Cancer Patients with Lymphedema
Menée par entretiens aux Etats-Unis auprès de 20 patients atteints d'un cancer de la tête et du cou, cette étude qualitative analyse leurs symptômes, physiques et psychiques, associés à la présence d'un lymphœdème interne ou externe
Background: Lymphedema frequently develops as a long-term effect from cancer and/or its treatment, including head and neck cancer (HNC). There is a substantial lack of understanding regarding the symptoms and experiences related to head and neck lymphedema. Objective: The objective of this study was to explore HNC patients' experiences of lymphedema, with emphasis on physical findings and associated symptom burden. Design: This was a qualitative, descriptive study. A purposive sample of 20 HNC patients who completed lymphedema therapy participated in semistructured, face-to-face interviews. Thematic content analysis was utilized to assess data. Results: Participants delineated the time when lymphedema onset presented and the sites of involvement. Most participants first noticed external or internal lymphedema/swelling within three months following either surgery or radiation therapy. Participants described a broad array of concurrent symptoms and functional deficits, including altered sensations, altered functions, neck–shoulder musculoskeletal/skin impairments, and psychosocial symptoms. Discussion: HNC patients experienced multiple physical and psychosocial symptoms during the time they experienced lymphedema. Conclusions: Clinicians need to inquire about tissue swelling and associated symptoms early in the post-treatment period to initiate lymphedema management strategies in a timely manner and facilitate reduction of long-term symptom burden and functional deficits.