Symptomatic Radiation-induced Upper Extremity Occlusive Arterial Disease

Abstract Introduction Radiation enteritis is infrequent result of external beam radiation. However, its recognition is of increasing importance, because of the growing use of radiotherapy in the management of neoplastic conditions. Upper extremity arterial occlusive disease is a rare complication of radiation therapy for breast cancer. Report We present the case of a 64-year-old woman who developed upper extremity ischaemia 28 years after mastectomy and radiation therapy. Arteriography identified a stenotic proximal brachial artery lesion within the previous radiation field. Discussion Different mechanisms of injury leading to arterial occlusion have been proposed. The symptoms vary in type and severity, but are consistent with peripheral occlusive arterial disease. We review the pathophysiology and management options for this condition.