Letrozole-Induced Peripheral Edema

Clinical Characteristics and Management

• Letrozole-induced edema presents as simple fluid retention without the inflammatory or dermatologic features seen with cytotoxic chemotherapy agents, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology 1, 2
• This side effect differs significantly from chemotherapy-induced hand swelling (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome), which presents with burning pain, erythema, and progressive skin changes—features not characteristic of letrozole-induced edema, as reported by the European Society for Medical Oncology 1, 2
• Consider conservative measures including limb elevation, compression garments, and sodium restriction before escalating treatment for letrozole-related peripheral edema, as suggested by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 1