Tumors associated with radiotherapy: a case series

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiation Oncology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer incidence and mortality globally.
• Radiotherapy is a key component of breast cancer treatment, improving local control and survival rates.
• A rare but significant risk associated with radiotherapy is the development of secondary tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on cases of radiotherapy-induced tumors in breast cancer patients.
• To highlight the types and characteristics of these secondary malignancies.
• To emphasize the importance of recognizing radiation as a risk factor for tumor development.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of seven Colombian patients treated for breast cancer.
• Analysis of patient data including age, tumor stage, and treatment modalities.
• Histopathological review of radiotherapy-induced tumors.

Main Results:

• Five sarcomas and one basal cell carcinoma were identified as radiotherapy-induced tumors.
• The median age of affected patients was 54.4 years.
• Most patients had locally advanced breast cancer and received multimodal therapy including chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Conclusions:

• Sarcomas are the most frequent secondary tumors following breast cancer radiotherapy.
• Radiotherapy-induced tumors are rare, aggressive, and require individualized multimodal management.
• Radiation therapy is a confirmed risk factor for soft tissue tumor development.