WHAT IS RADIATION INDUCED BRACHIAL PLEXOPATHY?
(RIBP) Radiation-Induced Brachial Plexopathy (RIBP) is a progressive and painful paralysis of the arm and shoulder, brought on by radiation treatment for breast cancer and certain other cancers. With improvements in radiation technology, RIBP is rare these days, but can still occur when multiple overlapping radiation fields or high radiation doses are used. It most often involves lymphedema of the affected arm and, like lymphedema, RIBP can develop at any time following radiation treatment of the area. There is no cure, though interventions are possible to slow progression, optimize remaining arm and hand function, control related lymphedema, and relieve pain. top of page CONNECTING WITH OTHERS WHO HAVE RIBP If you have RIBP it can be difficult to find others to communicate with who share this diagnosis. These resources may help: The discussion boards at BreastCancer.org include a thread for women and men with RIBP. The site is public, so you can read posts without registering. If you’
(RIBP) Radiation-Induced Brachial Plexopathy (RIBP) is a progressive and painful paralysis of the arm and shoulder, brought on by radiation treatment for breast cancer and certain other cancers. With improvements in radiation technology, RIBP is rare these days, but can still occur when multiple overlapping radiation fields or high radiation doses are used. It most often involves lymphedema of the affected arm and, like lymphedema, RIBP can develop at any time following radiation treatment of the area. There is no cure, though interventions are possible to slow progression, optimize remaining arm and hand function, control related lymphedema, and relieve pain. top of page CONNECTING WITH OTHERS WHO HAVE RIBP If you have RIBP it can be difficult to find others to communicate with who share this diagnosis. These resources may help: The discussion boards at BreastCancer.org include a thread for women and men with RIBP. The site is public, so you can read posts without registering. If you’
