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L

Lobe: A subdivision of an organ (breast, lung, etc.).

Lobule: A subdivision of a lobe.

Lobular carcinoma in-situ (LCIS): Abnormal cells in the lobules of the breast. While LCIS seldom becomes frank cancer, it is a strong sign that a woman has increased risk of developing breast cancer.

Lumpectomy (breast conservation surgery): Surgery in which a breast tumor and a small surrounding area of normal tissue are removed.

Lymph: A body fluid that travels through the lymph vessels. The fluid carries cells that fight infection and cancer.

Lympedema: Swelling of the arm cause by the removal of the axillary lymph nodes.

Lymph nodes or glands: Bead-shaped organs located along lymphatic vessels. They store the cells, which trap and fight cancer cells and bacteria. Nodes are found in the underarms, chest, neck, groin, and abdomen.

Lymphedema:
Swelling of the arm or leg from blocked lymphatics caused often by cancer, surgery, or x-ray treatment.