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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
09:36
Changes in Mammary Gland Morphology and Breast Cancer Risk in Rats
Published on: October 16, 2010
Pregnancy associated breast cancer
M García-Manero1, M P Royo, J Espinos
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clínica Universitaria de Navarra, University of Navarra, Pamplona 31008, Spain. mgmanero@unav.es
Summary
Breast cancer during pregnancy can be safely treated with chemotherapy in the second and third trimesters. Treatment with FAC chemotherapy or taxanes after the first trimester showed no significant complications for exposed infants.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Perinatal Care
Background:
- Breast cancer in pregnancy presents a complex challenge, balancing maternal treatment with fetal well-being.
- Optimal management aims to maximize maternal survival while minimizing fetal risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on the epidemiology, pathology, clinical presentation, therapeutic management, and fetal outcomes of pregnant women with breast cancer.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of chemotherapy regimens during pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 22 pregnant patients with breast cancer treated between 1996 and 2006.
- Parental surveys (mail/telephone) were used to assess outcomes of children exposed to in-utero chemotherapy.
Main Results:
- Most patients underwent surgery during pregnancy.
- Chemotherapy (FAC regimen: Doxorubicin, Fluoracil, Cyclophosphamide) initiated after the first trimester showed no congenital malformations in offspring.
- Four cases treated with taxanes after the first trimester also resulted in no observed congenital anomalies.
Conclusions:
- Breast cancer can be effectively treated with FAC chemotherapy during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
- Treatment with taxanes after the first trimester appears safe, with no observed congenital complications in exposed children.
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