Update on Locally Advanced Breast Cancer

Abstract

Abstract Learning Objectives After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Discuss the heterogeneity of locally advanced breast cancer. Explain the rationale for the multidisciplinary coordination of care for patients with locally advanced breast cancer. Identify the current standard of care for the treatment of locally advanced breast cancer. Access and take the CME test online and receive one hour of AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com Locally advanced breast cancer remains a clinical challenge as the majority of patients with this diagnosis develop distant metastases despite appropriate therapy. Patients with locally advanced disease encompass a wide range of clinical scenarios including advanced primary tumors (stage T4), advanced nodal disease (fixed axillary nodes or involvement of ipsilateral supraclavicular, infraclavicular, or internal mammary nodes), and inflammatory carcinomas. The prognoses of women with locally advanced breast tumors are also heterogeneous and depend on tumor size, extent of lymph node involvement, and the presence or absence of inflammatory carcinoma. Women with locally advanced disease require multimodal therapy, and coordinated treatment planning among the medical oncologist, surgical oncologist, and radiation oncologist is necessary to optimize patient care. In this article, the epidemiology, evaluation, prognostic factors, and treatment for locally advanced breast cancer are discussed. Inflammatory cancer is also reviewed, but is considered separately due to its distinct biology and clinical behavior.