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Breast cancer and pregnancy
1Division of Medical Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
Seminars in Oncology
|October 1, 1989
Summary
Breast cancer during pregnancy is rare and diagnosis can be delayed. Treatment and prognosis for pregnant patients are similar to nonpregnant individuals, with disease stage being key for survival.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Breast cancer in pregnancy is uncommon, posing diagnostic and psychosocial challenges.
- Normal pregnancy-related breast changes can delay breast cancer diagnosis.
- Early detection is crucial, as disease stage at diagnosis is the primary survival predictor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of breast cancer during pregnancy.
- To compare the prognosis of breast cancer in pregnant versus nonpregnant patients.
- To provide guidance on treatment and reproductive decisions for affected individuals.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC).
- Analysis of diagnostic delays and treatment outcomes.
- Evaluation of the impact of pregnancy termination and subsequent pregnancies on survival.
Main Results:
- Prognosis for breast cancer during pregnancy is comparable to nonpregnant patients when matched for age and stage.
- Termination of pregnancy does not improve survival and should be patient-centered.
- Subsequent pregnancies do not negatively impact survival, though caution is advised initially.
Conclusions:
- Breast cancer during pregnancy requires management based on established oncologic principles.
- Treatment decisions should prioritize patient well-being and consider fetal risks.
- Reproductive choices post-diagnosis should be informed by survival data and patient desires.