Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) Practice Exam

Which patient group is most prone to developing axillary web syndrome?

1. Young patients who are thin

2. All women regardless of BMI

3. Young patients who are obese

4. Men

The correct answer is: Young patients who are thin

Axillary web syndrome, also known as cording, typically occurs as a complication after procedures such as axillary dissection or radiation therapy, especially in breast cancer patients. The condition involves the formation of fibrous cords in the axillary region, which can lead to restricted movement and discomfort. The group that is most prone to developing axillary web syndrome is young patients who are thin. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors: 1. **Anatomy and Tissue Composition**: Thinner individuals may have less subcutaneous fat and tissue cushioning in the axillary area, which can make the underlying structures more susceptible to the development of cording after surgical interventions, such as lymph node removal. 2. **Healing Response**: Younger patients tend to have a different healing response compared to older individuals. They may experience more robust tissue reaction or fibrosis post-surgery, leading to the formation of these fibrous cords. 3. **Lymphatic and Vascular Changes**: Young, thinner patients may experience more significant changes in lymphatic and vascular structures following surgical trauma. This can contribute to an increased likelihood of developing the webbing associated with axillary web syndrome. In contrast, other groups may not be as significantly affected by the same physiological factors