How the lymphatic system changes after axillary lymph node removal in breast cancer
Official title: Structural and Functional Remodeling of the Lymphatic System After Axillary Lymph Node Dissection
Funded at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-11449775 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project looks at why some breast cancer patients develop lymphedema after sentinel or axillary lymph node removal and how the lymphatic system’s structure affects that risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 26, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $869,408 |
| NIH project number | 2R01HL157991-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11449775 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Breast cancer patients who have undergone axillary lymph node dissection or related treatment and are at risk for lymphedema.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without upper extremity lymphatic disruption or those not at risk for lymphedema may see minimal direct benefit.
What this research studies
Breast cancer patients who have Axillary Lymph Node Dissection may develop lymphedema, a condition with swelling and infections. The study explores how variations in lymphatic anatomy, including alternative pathways, could explain who gets lymphedema and who does not. By mapping lymphatic drainage and its compensatory routes, researchers hope to identify predictors of risk and potential prevention opportunities. The work will connect clinical risk factors to the underlying anatomy to guide future care after lymph node surgery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prediction of lymphedema risk and inform personalized strategies to prevent or mitigate it after breast cancer treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows anatomy matters for lymphedema risk, but this project tests a more precise anatomical basis for prediction and prevention.
Where this research is happening
-
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singhal, Dhruv — Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Singhal, Dhruv
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.