Understanding lymphatic dysfunction in lymphedema
Official title: Study of Lymphatic Dysfunction in Primary and Secondary Lymphedema
Run by University Hospital, Toulouse · NCT05629026 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to understand the differences in lymphatic problems between inherited and cancer-related lymphedema to find new ways to help patients feel better.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Toulouse Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toulouse) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 21, 2024 |
| Main results expected | February 2026 |
| Study ends | February 2026 |
| Registry record updated | December 31, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05629026 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 to 75 who have developed primary or secondary lymphedema after breast cancer treatment.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with active infections, venous insufficiency, or a history of chronic inflammatory diseases may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the molecular and histological differences between primary and secondary lymphedema, conditions characterized by impaired lymphatic function and swelling. It aims to analyze gene expression in patients who have developed lymphedema, either inherited or as a result of cancer treatment. By utilizing micro-biopsies, the study seeks to uncover potential therapeutic strategies to restore lymphatic function. The research is conducted at the University Hospital in Toulouse, focusing on patients with specific eligibility criteria related to their lymphedema condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing lymphedema, improving patient quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research directly comparing primary and secondary lymphedema at the molecular level, the study's approach is novel and could provide valuable insights.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Patients in who developed primary lymphedema or secondary lymphedema after breast cancer treatment. 2. Male and female over the age of 18 and under 75. 3. Patient affiliated to a social security scheme in France. 4. Patient having signed informed consent prior to inclusion in the study and prior to any specific procedure for the study. 5. Patients with no recidive \> 3 years after cancer surgery. 6. Patients with Body Mass Index \<35. 7. Patient enrolled in a care pathway for the management of their lymphedema (medical and educational care). 8. Patients wearing a compression orthosis on the limb with lymphedema. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Patients with strong suspicion or with active bacterial or fungal infection. 2. Patient with venous insufficiency associated with lymphedema. 3. Patient with a history of deep venous thrombosis on the limb with lymphedema. 4. History of chronic inflammatory disease. 5. Active neoplasia during parallel management. 6. Patient already included in another therapeutic trial. 7. Pregnant or breastfeeding woman. 8. Metastatic cancer. 9. Bilateral breast cancer. 10. Obliterative arterial disease. 11. Multiple erysipelas. 12. Active smoking (delayed healing). 13. Medicines that may promote delayed healing (Corticosteroid therapy, immunosuppressants). 14. Medication that thins the blood (aspirin and antiplatelet agent, anti-coagulant). 15. Betadine allergy. 16. Patient under guardianship or trusteeship, persons placed under the protection of justice
Where it's running
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Toulouse Hospital
Toulouse, France Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Julie Malloizel-Delaunay, MD — University Hospital, Toulouse
- Study coordinator: Julie MALLOIZEL-DELAUNAY, MD
- Email: malloizel-delaunay.j@chu-toulouse.fr
- Phone: +33 (0)5 61 32 30 33
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Use of reconstructive microsurgery to treat lymphedema
This study tests whether reconstructive microsurgery, with or without the help of indocyanine green imaging, can help people with lymphedema feel and function better by improving lymphatic drainage.
-
Predicting lymphedema risk in inflammatory breast cancer patients using preoperative body impedance analysis
This study tests whether a preoperative bioimpedance test can help identify IBC patients who are at risk for developing lymphedema.
-
Boosted compression for lower limb edema
This study tests whether applying a multicomponent short-stretch bandage three times daily (boosted compression) helps reduce edema faster in people with chronic edema or lymphedema of the legs, compared with the standard single daily bandage.
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Erector Spinae Block vs Paravertebral Block for Chronic Pain After Mastectomy
This trial tests whether an erector spinae block can better prevent chronic pain after mastectomy than a paravertebral block in adults 18–80.
-
Resistance exercise for people with lower-limb lymphedema
This study tests whether short periods of supervised resistance exercise, with and without compression garments, change swelling or symptoms in people with lower-limb lymphedema.
-
Tracking body composition changes after breast cancer treatment
This project will see how muscle mass and fat distribution change over two years in adults treated for stage I–III breast cancer.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.