82. A lady with breast cancer has undergone axillary LN clearance

UK PLAB 1
#1
  1. A lady with breast cancer has undergone axillary LN clearance. She develops arm swelling after
    being stung by a bee. What is the most likely mechanism responsible for the swelling?
    a. Lymphedema
    b. Cellulitis
    c. Hypersensitivity reaction
    d. DVT
    e. Fluid retention
    Q. 1. What is the key?
    Q. 2. What is the reason for this condition?

Ans. 1. The key is A. Lymphoedema.
Ans. 2. Reason is compromised lymphatic drainage of arm due to axillary LN clearance. So if there is
any inflammation or selling, lymph drainage is compromised further giving rise to swelling of
limb of that operated side.

#2

Even if she did not have lymph node clearance she would develop swelling when stung by bee because of hypersensitivity reaction.

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