Bone-modifying agents for bone metastasis in patients with breast cancer

Abstract

The bone is the most common location of breast cancer metastasis. Bone metastasis causes pain and skeletal-related events (SREs), and affects the quality of life and survival of breast cancer patients. Bone-modifying agents, including bisphosphonates and denosumab, reduce the risk of SREs in these patients. Among bisphosphonates, zoledronic acid is preferred due to its higher efficacy. Denosumab is marginally more effective than zoledronic acid in reducing the frequency of SREs. Patients with renal impairment should receive zoledronic acid with caution due to nephrotoxicity, and denosumab is an alternative option in these patients. Osteonecrosis of the jaw is a rare but severe complication of both zoledronic acid and denosumab, and all patients should undergo dental examinations before and during treatment. Although these drugs can reduce the risk of SREs in bone metastasis, no significant improvement in survival has been noted. This study reviews the effects and adverse events of bone-modifying agents for the treatment of bone metastasis from breast cancer.