Intravenous pamidronate for refractory lymphedema

Abstract EN

Background : based on beneficial reports of pamidronate use for reflex sympathetic dystrophy in reduction of pain and swelling, this drug can be studied as a novel treatment for refractory lymphedema.

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of pamidronate on lymphedema and its possible side effects.

Methods : Twelve cases of lower limb refractory lymphedema were enrolled.

They received intravenous pa-marinate monthly for 3 consecutive months and were followed by measuring any discomfort with visual analog scale (VAS) and physician global assessment, based on objective signs of limb volume and circumference.

Results: The limb volume, circumference, and patient satisfaction of the patients improved significantly.

Conclusion : pamidronate when is added to conservative treatments may reduce lymphedema and improve the patient’s comfort.