Docetaxel in anthracycline-resistant metastatic breast cancer

Docetaxel is a taxane that disrupts the equilibrium in the polymerization and depolymerization of microtubules, thus inhibiting cell growth. This agent is indicated for the treatment of anthracycline-resistant metastatic breast cancer. The dose-limiting adverse effect is neutropenia, but febrile neutropenia is uncommon. Like paclitaxel, docetaxel is very active in patients with both chemotherapy-resistant and refractory metastatic breast cancer. Although the mechanism of action, spectrum of activity, and side effect profile of this agent are similar to those of paclitaxel, docetaxel may be efficacious in patients with metastatic breast cancer who have become resistant or refractory to paclitaxel therapy. However, more studies are warranted before the role of docetaxel is defined in patients with paclitaxel-resistant breast cancer.