Breast Cancer Brain Metastases and HER-2 Therapy
Author Information
Author(s): Le Scodan Romuald, Jouanneau Ludivine, Massard Christophe, Gutierrez Maya, Kirova Youlia, Cherel Pascal, Gachet Julie, Labib Alain, Mouret-Fourme Emmanuelle
Primary Institution: Institut Curie-Hôpital René Huguenin, Saint Cloud, France
Hypothesis
What is the prognostic significance of HER-2 overexpression and the effect of trastuzumab in patients with brain metastases from breast cancer?
Conclusion
Trastuzumab-based therapy for HER-overexpressing tumors was associated with improved survival in patients with brain metastases from breast cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- The median survival time for HER-2 positive patients treated with trastuzumab was 19.53 months.
- The 1-year survival rate for HER-2 positive patients treated with trastuzumab was 62.6%.
- Trastuzumab-based therapy was associated with a 51% reduction in the risk of death.
Takeaway
This study found that patients with breast cancer that has spread to the brain and who are treated with a specific drug called trastuzumab tend to live longer.
Methodology
The study analyzed the outcomes of 130 patients with brain metastases from breast cancer who received whole-brain radiotherapy and recorded demographic data, tumor characteristics, and treatments.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the retrospective nature of the data collection and selection of patients.
Limitations
The study is retrospective and may not account for all variables affecting survival.
Participant Demographics
Mean age at diagnosis was 52.8 years, with 41.5% of patients younger than 50 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.004
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 28-45.7
Statistical Significance
p<0.004
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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