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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Fabio Nicoli
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© Copyright 2022, Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers 2022. Background: Gynecological cancer-related lymphedema (GCRL) is a devastating condition that adversely influences function, health, and quality of life. We conducted a randomized-controlled clinical study as well as in vitro experiments to investigate the efficacy and safety of far infrared radiation (FIR) to treat lymphedema in patients having previously undergone surgery for gynecological tumors. Materials and Methods: Seventy-four women with GCRL, cancer free for 5 years or more, were randomly allocated into two treatment groups: standard of care with bandage treatment and treatment with FIR plus bandage. Variations of fluid, circumference of lymphedematous limbs, serum tumor markers (cancer antigen 125 [CA125]), inguinal-pelvic lymph nodes, vagina, lungs, and adverse reactions were assessed after 1 year. In vitro experiments examined the effects on cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, and the cell cycle of fibroblast, A2780, SKOV-3, HELA, and Ishikawa cells. Results: The FIR+bandage group showed significantly decreased tissue fluid and reduced limb circumference (p < 0.05) in comparison with the control group at 1 year. There was no increase of serum CA125 in both groups, and no recurrence of neoplasia or lymphadenopathy was detected. No adverse reactions were recorded. In addition, no changes were detected after FIR treatment for fibroblast, A2780, SKOV-3, HELA, and Ishikawa cells in cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, and cell cycle. Conclusion: FIR can be used to treat patients with GCRL following gynecological cancer treatment. Following clinical and experimental studies, we confirm that FIR is an oncologically safe treatment for lymphedema in gynecological tumor patients.
Author(s): Xia L, Cui C, Nicoli F, Al-Mousawi A, Campisi CC, Lazzeri D, Liu NF, Xie B, Li K, Zhang Y
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: Lymphatic Research and Biology
Year: 2022
Volume: 20
Issue: 2
Pages: 164-174
Print publication date: 01/04/2022
Online publication date: 21/05/2021
Acceptance date: 02/04/2018
ISSN (print): 1539-6851
ISSN (electronic): 1557-8585
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc.
URL: https://doi.org/10.1089/lrb.2019.0061
DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2019.0061
PubMed id: 34028298
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