[Treatment planning based on oncologic signs of malignant tumors--consequences for breast cancer]

Although the carcinoma of the female breast is characterised by a special invasive behaviour, many of its features apply likewise to other types of tumour. This results in treatment concepts aimed at curing the disease, partly also at preserving the organ itself. Treatment with a palliative aim has received new impulses by discussing a closely meshed and individual follow-up plan that identifies relevant metastases even before they become clinically manifest. The consequences of this approach will contribute significantly towards an improvement of the quality of life of the patients concerned.