A Case of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Locally Advanced Inflammatory Breast Cancer With Low-Level ER Expression

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is a rare presentation of breast carcinoma characterized by tumor cell emboli invading the dermal lymphatics and manifesting as skin edema and redness. In this study, we report a case of locally advanced IBC with neoadjuvant chemotherapy. After the diagnosis of locally advanced IBC, this patient received a series of neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment through the multidisciplinary team discussion, and thereafter, a modified radical mastectomy for left breast cancer and a split-thickness skin graft were subsequently completed for this patient. Postoperative pathology revealed she achieved a pathological complete response (pCR). Following the recommendations of a further multidisciplinary team discussion, the patient continued on radiotherapy, a short course of endocrine therapy, and intensive therapy with capecitabine. During the 2-year follow-up period following the operation, the patient showed no signs of relapse or progression. The coordination of different disciplines is of paramount importance in ensuring the optimal treatment of locally advanced IBC patients, thereby facilitating a more favorable prognosis.