Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) Practice Exam

What type of edema may occur post-mastectomy related to lymphatic damage?

1. Fluid retention

2. Venous insufficiency

3. Lymphedema

4. Both A and C

The correct answer is: Both A and C

The question relates to the complications that can arise after a mastectomy, particularly focusing on lymphatic damage. Post-mastectomy, patients can experience various forms of swelling, one of which is lymphedema. Lymphedema is a specific type of swelling that occurs due to the accumulation of lymph fluid in tissues when the lymphatic system is compromised, often as a result of surgical removal of lymph nodes or damage to lymphatic vessels during surgery. Fluid retention can also occur after surgery but is more generalized and not specifically related to lymphatic system disruption. It may result from a variety of causes such as inflammation, changes in fluid balance, or immobilization after surgery. Thus, while fluid retention can occur in the post-operative setting, it does not specifically stem from lymphatic damage. Therefore, the presence of lymphedema highlights the lymphatic system's failure to properly drain lymph fluid, causing localized swelling. The recognition that both fluid retention and lymphedema can manifest after surgery acknowledges the broader spectrum of potential complications. This leads to the inclusion of both conditions in the correct answer.