Selecting local therapy in the young breast cancer patient

Survival rates among young women with breast cancer remain inferior to that of older women. Higher rates of local failure after breast conservation (BCT) have led to speculation that mastectomy may be better, yet this remains unproven. Gene expression profiling provides new insight into biological differences that may account for differences in outcomes. With careful attention to margins and appropriate use of radiation and systemic therapy, BCT remains a safe option for young women with breast cancer.