ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to promote understanding and enhance skills, reducing the significant effects of oedema in advanced disease. Oedema of the limbs, trunk and genitalia is a common and often significant symptom of advanced cancer. Despite this, lymphoedema, and its management, is poorly understood and a neglected aspect of palliative care. Swelling may extend beyond the roof of a limb involving the trunk and genitalia. This can be extremely distressing and incapacitating. Compression may enhance lymph drainage and reduce swelling. Some manufacturers make ready- or custom- made low compression garments but they are costly, and may take time to customise. The burden of a heavy, swollen limb, possibly exacerbated by infection, inflammation, and infiltration or pressure on nerves, can result in distressing pain sensations. A range of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions may be required. The interdisciplinary approach, encompassing nurse, physiotherapist, occupational therapist and palliative care team, will provide the opportunity for optimum benefit to the patient.
