Ki67 in breast cancer: prognostic and predictive potential

Rinat Yerushalmi ¹, Ryan Woods , Peter M Ravdin

⁰Division of Medical Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada. ryerushalmi@bccancer.bc.ca

The Lancet. Oncology +

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February 16, 2010

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Ki67 is a key marker for early breast cancer, showing prognostic and predictive value. New evidence suggests Ki67 should be routinely included in pathological assessments to guide treatment decisions.

Area Of Science

Oncology
Pathology
Genetics

Background

Current early breast cancer treatment relies on oestrogen-receptor, progesterone-receptor, and HER2 status.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology guidelines do not mandate Ki67 testing.
Emerging genetic tests highlight the significance of proliferative genes like Ki67.

Purpose Of The Study

To re-evaluate evidence supporting the inclusion of Ki67 in standard early breast cancer pathological assessments.
To provide an updated review of Ki67's prognostic and predictive roles.
To inform about laboratory techniques for Ki67 determination.

Main Methods

Review of published literature and randomized studies.
Retrospective analysis of existing data on Ki67.
Assessment of evidence for guideline changes.

Main Results

Ki67 demonstrates significant prognostic and predictive value in early breast cancer.
Randomized studies increasingly support the role of Ki67.
New genetic tests underscore the importance of proliferative markers.

Conclusions

Ki67 is a crucial marker that warrants inclusion in routine pathological assessments for early breast cancer.
Updated evidence suggests current guidelines may need revision to incorporate Ki67.
Standardized Ki67 assessment can improve treatment recommendations.

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