Post-axillary dissection pain in breast cancer due to a lesion of the intercostobrachial nerve

Pain. 1989 Aug;38(2):171-6. doi: 10.1016/0304-3959(89)90235-2.

Abstract

Seven patients with breast carcinoma and post-axillary dissection pain are described. They complained about pain in the axilla, inner side of the upper arm and/or shoulder. All had undergone a partial or radical breast amputation including an axillary lymph node dissection. On neurological examination all had evidence of a lesion of the intercostobrachial nerve. The pain was not associated with lymphedema and only one patient had undergone radiotherapy to the axillary and supraclavicular area. Post-axillary dissection pain is probably a more appropriate name than the usual post-mastectomy pain for this syndrome. During the dissection, the intercostobrachial nerve is often lesioned, which may give rise to neuropathic pain of that nerve.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Breast Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Carcinoma / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intercostal Nerves / physiopathology
  • Intercostal Nerves / surgery*
  • Mastectomy / adverse effects*
  • Middle Aged
  • Pain, Postoperative / physiopathology*
  • Thoracic Nerves / surgery*