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A systematic overview of chemotherapy effects in breast cancer.

Author: , BerghJ, GlimeliusB, JönssonP E, NygrenP

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Overview

This review of chemotherapy trials for breast cancer found that adjuvant chemotherapy improves survival, especially for younger patients and those with node-positive disease. Anthracycline-containing regimens offer greater survival benefit compared to non-anthracycline regimens. Adding tamoxifen enhances survival for receptor-positive tumors. While high-dose therapy is being studied, evidence does not currently support its routine use. For locally advanced breast cancer, neoadjuvant chemotherapy increases the chance for breast-conserving surgery. Metastatic breast cancer patients experience a median survival of 12-24 months with conventional chemotherapy. Polychemotherapy improves survival compared to single-agent therapy, and anthracycline-containing regimens offer greater survival benefit than non-anthracycline regimens, except for CMF with prednisone/prednisolone. Second-line therapy with vinorelbine or docetaxel has shown a survival advantage. While breast cancer shows a dose-response relationship with chemotherapy, there appears to be a plateau in survival benefit beyond a certain dose.
Paper Details　
Original Abstract of the Article :
A systematic review of chemotherapy trials in several tumour types was performed by The Swedish Council of Technology Assessment in Health Care (SBU). The procedures for the evaluation of the scientific literature are described separately (Acta Oncol 2001; 40: 155-65). This synthesis of the literatu...See full text at original site
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引用元：
https://doi.org/10.1080/02841860151116349

データ提供：米国国立医学図書館（NLM）

Chemotherapy: A Balancing Act in Breast Cancer Treatment

Breast cancer is a complex and challenging disease, and chemotherapy plays a significant role in its treatment. This comprehensive review delves into the vast landscape of chemotherapy trials in breast cancer, analyzing data from numerous studies and meta-analyses. The researchers meticulously evaluate the efficacy, safety, and quality of life implications of chemotherapy in both the adjuvant (after surgery) and metastatic settings. Think of this review as a map guiding us through the complex terrain of breast cancer treatment, revealing the benefits and challenges of chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy's Impact on Survival and Quality of Life

The research indicates that adjuvant chemotherapy significantly improves survival rates for patients with node-positive breast cancer, particularly for younger women. The addition of tamoxifen to chemotherapy further enhances survival benefits for receptor-positive breast cancers. The review also explores the role of anthracyclines and taxanes in chemotherapy regimens, finding that they improve survival rates. However, the review also acknowledges that chemotherapy can have negative impacts on quality of life, especially in the short term. Nevertheless, long-term follow-up studies indicate that chemotherapy does not significantly impair quality of life compared to untreated patients.

Navigating the Desert of Breast Cancer Treatment

This research emphasizes the importance of individualized treatment plans for breast cancer. Factors like age, tumor characteristics, and patient preferences should be considered when determining the best course of treatment. Remember, like a camel adapting to the harsh desert environment, it's crucial to find the right approach for each patient's unique needs and circumstances. The review also highlights the ongoing need for research into new and improved chemotherapy regimens that can maximize efficacy while minimizing side effects.

Dr. Camel's Conclusion

This comprehensive review provides valuable insights into the complex world of chemotherapy in breast cancer treatment. It underscores the importance of carefully considering individual factors and choosing the most appropriate approach for each patient. As a knowledgeable camel in the vast desert of breast cancer research, I applaud the efforts of researchers to improve outcomes and minimize the burden of this disease.

Date :
  1. Date Completed 2001-07-19
  2. Date Revised 2019-09-06
Further Info :

Pubmed ID

11441936

DOI: Digital Object Identifier

10.1080/02841860151116349

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・Effective treatment of breast cancer
SNS
PICO Info
in preparation
Languages

English

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