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Therapeutic options for HER-2 positive breast cancer: Perspectives and future directions
Gonzalo Recondo1, Enrique Dìaz Canton1, Màximo de la Vega1
1Gonzalo Recondo Jr, Enrique Dìaz Canton, Màximo de la Vega, Martin Greco, Gonzalo Recondo Sr, Centro de Educación Médica e Investigaciones Clínicas (CEMIC), 4102 Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Abstract:
During the last 15 years we have witnessed an unprecedented expansion in the drugs developed to target human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER-2) positive breast cancer. Trastuzumab, pertuzumab, ado-trastuzumab emtansine and lapatinib are currently food and drug administration (FDA)-approved for the treatment of breast cancer patients with HER-2 over-expressed. However, given the amount of information gathered from years of uninterrupted clinical research, it is essential to have periodic updates that succinctly recapitulate what we have learnt over these last years and help us to apply that information in our daily practice. This review will pursue that objective. We will summarize the most relevant and updated information related to the state of the art management of HER-2 positive breast cancer in all the clinical scenarios including the adjuvant, neoadjuvant and metastatic settings. But we will also critically appraise that literature in order to highlight some key clinical concepts that should not be overlooked. Lastly, this review will also point out some of the most promising strategies that are currently being tested and may soon become available.
Insights
This review summarizes recent advancements in treating human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER-2) positive breast cancer. It covers FDA-approved drugs and future strategies for adjuvant, neoadjuvant, and metastatic settings.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Significant expansion in drug development for human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER-2) positive breast cancer over the past 15 years.
- Current FDA-approved therapies include trastuzumab, pertuzumab, ado-trastuzumab emtansine, and lapatinib for HER-2 over-expressed breast cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a succinct, updated review of the state-of-the-art management of HER-2 positive breast cancer.
- To critically appraise existing literature and highlight key clinical concepts for practical application.
- To identify promising future therapeutic strategies currently under investigation.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of clinical research and drug development in HER-2 positive breast cancer.
- Synthesis of information across adjuvant, neoadjuvant, and metastatic clinical scenarios.
- Critical analysis of clinical trial data and treatment guidelines.
Main Results:
- Summary of established and emerging treatment options for HER-2 positive breast cancer.
- Identification of critical clinical considerations in managing HER-2 positive disease.
- Overview of novel therapeutic agents and strategies in clinical development.
Conclusions:
- Periodic reviews are essential to integrate the wealth of clinical research into daily practice for HER-2 positive breast cancer.
- A critical appraisal of current knowledge and future directions is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.
- Emerging therapies hold promise for further improving treatment efficacy in all stages of HER-2 positive breast cancer.
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