Which of the following is NOT likely a cause of lymphedema in a patient with a history of breast cancer?

To understand why cellulitis is not likely a cause of lymphedema in a patient with a history of breast cancer, it’s essential to clarify the relationship between these conditions. Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and soft tissues, which can indeed lead to swelling and inflammation. However, while cellulitis can temporarily exacerbate or complicate existing lymphedema, it is not a direct cause of lymphedema itself.

Lymphedema typically arises from a disruption in lymphatic drainage. In breast cancer patients, common causes include surgical removal of lymph nodes (axillary dissection), radiation therapy which can lead to fibrosis and scarring, and malignancies that can obstruct lymphatic pathways. These contributing factors directly damage the lymphatic system or impede its function.

In contrast, cellulitis generally occurs as a response to infection and does not intrinsically disturb the lymphatic system or its pathways in the same manner as the other conditions listed. Therefore, while cellulitis may be associated with lymphedema, it is not a primary cause of it in patients with a history of breast cancer.