Current therapeutic options for breast cancer central nervous system metastases

Curr Treat Options Oncol. 2008 Feb;9(1):41-50. doi: 10.1007/s11864-008-0056-2. Epub 2008 Apr 5.

Abstract

Breast cancer metastases to the central nervous system (CNS) has devastating consequences for the individual. As treatment options for metastatic breast cancer expand and as quality of life and overall survival improve, researchers are targeting potential treatments for this sanctuary site. Attention is now being focused on defining the phenotype of breast cancer that has a propensity to metastasize to the CNS. Specific therapies that penetrate the blood brain barrier as well as adjuvant therapies that decrease recurrence in the CNS are currently being investigated. We will review current approaches to the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of CNS metastases in breast cancer patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / drug effects
  • Brain Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Brain Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Receptor, ErbB-2 / metabolism

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Receptor, ErbB-2