[Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in breast cancer]

Nihon Rinsho. 2006 Mar;64(3):536-9.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer was originally used in locally advanced inoperable disease in order to achieve surgical resection. It was then extended to operable breast cancer with a view to downstaging tumors to facilitate breast-conserving surgery. Long-term results from randomized studies have shown no difference in disease-free or overall survival between neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy. The main benefit of neoadjuvant chemotherapy is its ability to downstage large tumors with a view to treatment by breast-conserving surgery. Since pathological complete response is thought to be main factor to achieve long-term survival, development of new agent or novel combination treatment is needed.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Breast Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Breast Neoplasms / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neoadjuvant Therapy
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic