Lymphedema refers to abnormal and persistent swelling and can occur in the arms or legs. Lymphedema occurs when the flow of lymph fluid is obstructed. This condition is usually isolated to a single arm or leg, although it can present itself on multiple limbs.
In America it occurs most commonly after cancer treatment. For example, lymphedema of the arm can develop after mastectomy and lymph node removal procedures.
When patients are diagnosed with breast cancer or other breast conditions, they may not always understand the terms used. There are several different kinds of breast cancer in addition to various other health conditions affecting the breasts. To better understand their breast health and to inform health care decisions, women should familiarize themselves with the anatomy of the breast and some breast-related health care terms.
In early 2013, the state of California required medical imaging centers to inform women if they have dense breast tissue, as revealed in a screening mammogram. Since then, many of our patients have asked me what is dense breast tissue?
To help women better understand breast density, I recently participated in a question and answer format for an Asian-American media outlet. Please find a summary of the exchange below. What breast imaging topics would you like me to discuss in my next blog post?
Across the country, more and more women will be informed when mammography reveals dense breast tissue – and that’s a good thing.
What are dense breasts? Women are increasingly asking this question as the topic of breast density receives attention from the media, state legislatures and Congress.
