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Breast irradiation and lactation: a review
Sarah Campos Leal1, Silvia Radwanski Stuart, Heloisa de Andrade Carvalho
1Division of Oncology, Radiotherapy, Departamento de Radiologia da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
Expert Review of Anticancer Therapy
|February 15, 2013
Summary
Breast cancer survivors can often lactate after radiation therapy, though milk volume may decrease. Breastfeeding is unaffected in the opposite breast, offering hope for new mothers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Radiotherapy
Background:
- Increasing incidence of breast cancer in premenopausal women.
- Many survivors retain fertility and desire future pregnancies.
- Delayed childbearing is a growing trend.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review anatomical and histopathological factors influencing lactation post-breast irradiation.
- To assess the probability of lactation and breastfeeding after conservative breast cancer treatment.
- To examine biochemical changes in breast milk following radiotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on studies of lactation and breastfeeding after breast cancer treatment.
- Analysis of factors such as surgical techniques and radiation dosage.
- Review of biochemical alterations in irradiated breast milk.
Main Results:
- Lactation is possible in at least 50% of patients post-radiotherapy, but often with reduced volume.
- Lactation capacity is correlated with the type of surgery and radiation dose.
- Biochemical changes were noted in breast milk from irradiated breasts.
- Breastfeeding from the contralateral breast remains unaffected.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy after conservative breast cancer treatment is increasingly feasible.
- Lactation is possible but may be diminished following breast irradiation.
- Breastfeeding from the unaffected breast is a viable option for many survivors.
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