Current and Novel Treatment Options in Hormone Receptor-Positive, Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2-Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer
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Nerea Lopetegui-Lia1, Revati Varma2, Jame Abraham1
1Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.
Abstract:
Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) remains an incurable disease, and most patients will experience disease progression during their treatment course. Although endocrine therapy remains the mainstay of treatment for hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative mBC, significant progress has been and continues to be made in the treatment of this BC subtype. The discovery of molecular markers, mutations in key cellular pathways, and genomic signatures have led to the development of novel and targeted agents, such as antibody-drug conjugates, oral selective estrogen receptor downregulators, and inhibitors of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. This has resulted in significant improvements in the survival and quality of life of patients. With the increasing number of treatment options for patients, appropriate drug sequencing remains a challenge. Treatment discussions should involve patient-physician shared decision making, with consideration of genomic data, previous lines of therapy, side effect profiles, and clinical trial enrollment.
Insights
Metastatic breast cancer treatment is advancing with novel targeted therapies. Optimizing drug sequencing and shared decision-making are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Genetics
Background:
- Metastatic breast cancer (mBC) is largely incurable, with most patients experiencing disease progression.
- Endocrine therapy is standard for hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative mBC, but new treatments are emerging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advancements in mBC treatment.
- To highlight the role of molecular markers and targeted agents.
- To address challenges in drug sequencing and treatment decisions.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on mBC therapeutics.
- Analysis of novel targeted agents and their mechanisms.
- Discussion of treatment sequencing strategies.
Main Results:
- Significant progress in mBC treatment through targeted agents like antibody-drug conjugates and PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors.
- Improved survival and quality of life for patients with mBC.
- Emergence of challenges in selecting optimal drug sequences.
Conclusions:
- Personalized medicine approaches are transforming mBC care.
- Genomic data and shared decision-making are essential for effective treatment planning.
- Further research is needed to refine drug sequencing in mBC.
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