Question

Post MRM patient presented with upper limb swelling . What is the most probable cause

• A. Upper limb Lymphedema
• B. Angiosarcoma
• C. Recurrence
• D. Metastasis

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In patients who have undergone Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM), one of the common complications due to the surgery is swelling in the upper limb. This condition is most probably caused by upper limb lymphedema. Lymphedema occurs due to the disruption of normal lymphatic drainage following the removal or damage of lymph nodes during the surgical procedure. Here's how we can deduce the cause:

Step 1: Understand Post-MRM Anatomy Changes

MRM involves the removal of breast tissue along with axillary lymph nodes. This can impair the normal lymphatic drainage leading to accumulation of lymph fluid in the upper limb, causing swelling.

Step 2: Evaluation of Symptoms

Swelling in the upper limb post-MRM is consistent with lymphedema, which is characterized by persistent swelling, heaviness, and sometimes discomfort in the affected limb.

Step 3: Exclusion of Other Causes

Cause	Explanation
Angiosarcoma	Rare and presents with skin changes rather than swelling as the primary symptom.
Recurrence	Typically presents with a mass or localized pain rather than diffuse swelling.
Metastasis	Similar to recurrence, would present with a mass or systemic symptoms; less likely to cause isolated limb swelling.

Therefore, given the information, upper limb lymphedema is the most probable cause of the swelling in a patient post-MRM.