Advances in the management of localized breast cancer: an overview

Over the last few decades, there have been unprecedented advances in the multidisciplinary management of breast cancer. Surgical principles have shifted away from the Halstedian concept of radical surgery towards more cosmetic breast-conserving procedures, and advances have been made in terms of oncologic and plastic surgical techniques for those opting for mastectomy and reconstruction. Sentinel lymph node biopsy has revolutionized the evaluation of patients' nodal status and has become widely accepted as "state of the art." Medical oncology has made tremendous advances and is no longer relegated to the patients with metastatic disease. It is well accepted that chemotherapy may play a role even in patients with small tumors. Certainly the impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for downsizing tumors and making them amenable for breast conservation is also widely accepted. The advent of anthracyclines and, more recently, taxane-based regimens has had a substantial impact on the management of breast cancer. In addition, newer hormonal therapies such as the aromatase inhibitors have rivaled the classic cornerstone of tamoxifen. Radiation therapy has evolved from the era of cobalt-based therapy to newer, less morbid, techniques. In addition to advances in external beam radiation, the concept of accelerated partial breast irradiation and intraoperative radiation therapy is evolving and continues to be the focus of research endeavors. The unparalleled advances in the management of breast cancer in the fields of surgical, medical, and radiation oncology over the last half century continue today with ongoing research and clinical trials. As we enter the new millennium, breast cancer management will continue to evolve.