CONSEQUENCES OF BREAST CANCER TREATMENT

PELEJA, M. B. (UFG), SALVIANO, L. M. O. (UFG), CAETANO, J. J. (UFG), RODRIGUES, I. C. G. (UFG), ALVES, M. D. S. (UFG), COSTA, M. L. T. (UFG), GUIMARÃES, G. M. (UFG), SILVA, L. N. (UFG)

Federal University of GoiásTo indicate some complications related to the treatment of breast cancer. This is a literature review in Scielo, Pubmed, Medline and Lilacs databases, using the term “consequences of breast cancer therapy”. The most relevant information was summarized below. One of the terrible consequences is recurrence, maybe because autologous fat grafting can stimulate dormant cells. It’s still a controversial subject (Semprini et al). Another complication is lymphedema, due to the need for surgical resection of lymph nodes and lymph vessels (MARX & CAMARGO 1986). Also may occur: “scapula alata”; pectoralis major atrophies; shoulder dysfunctions; paresis and hypersensitivity of the arm and posterior axillary line; reduction of hand strength and seroma, occurring in 50% of patients submitted to radical modified mastectomy with axillary emptying (BRONDI, 2000; STANCZYK, 2007). The treatment generates physical as well as psychological effects. They cause nausea, vomiting, fatigue, alopecia, induced menopause, reduction of vaginal lubrication, reduction of sexual arousal, dyspaurenia and anorgasmia (White, 2004; Panjari et al., 2011). Among the psychosocial repercussions are the fear of death and concerns about recovery (Silva and Santos, 2008), (Barton-Burke and Gustason, 2007), and concerns about sexuality (Cesnik and Santos, 2012). The treatment of breast neoplasms can have several physical and psychological consequences on the woman. An important complication, still lacking in studies, is the possibility of a higher incidence of local recurrence in patients submitted to mammary lipoenxertia. Post-surgical complications include lymphedema and seroma. As a result of aggressive surgical, chemotherapeutic, radiotherapeutic or hormonal therapy the woman can have a negative impact on her sexuality.Breast neoplasm, Quality of life