Tailoring Management for Invasive Lobular Carcinoma: Imaging, Surgical Treatment, and Systemic Therapy Considerations

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is the most common special subtype of breast cancer.
• Current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies face significant challenges, necessitating personalized treatment approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the need for improved treatment personalization in invasive lobular carcinoma.
• To review current challenges and potential advancements in imaging, surgical, and systemic therapies for ILC.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on imaging, surgical, and systemic treatments for ILC.
• Analysis of the limitations of standard diagnostic tools and therapeutic options.
• Exploration of emerging imaging techniques and molecular targets.

Main Results:

• Standard imaging tools show decreased sensitivity for ILC detection.
• Surgical treatment of ILC is associated with a high rate of positive margins.
• Endocrine therapy is standard, but unique molecular features of ILC suggest potential for novel therapeutic targets.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for ILC-specific studies and clinical trials.
• Advancements in imaging and surgical techniques can improve ILC management.
• Targeting the unique molecular characteristics of ILC may lead to more effective systemic therapies.