Radiation Therapy in Patients with Germline Mutations: a Review of the Current Evidence

AbstractPurpose of ReviewBreast cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of death among in women in the USA. The development of breast cancer is associated with numerous risk factors including genetic predisposition. A steady increase in breast cancer incidence coupled with a plateau in recent years ’ mortality rates has created an urgent need to find solutions that can improve clinical outcomes. Radiation therapy is a major pillar in locoregional management of breast cancer. As such, we review the current evidence which supports radiation in the management of hereditary breast cancer.Recent FindingsMultigene panel analysis is widely used in clinical practice and has paved the way for important clinical advances with a significant impact on cancer care, particularly in the ability to detect germline gene mutations that confer an increased breast cancer risk.SummaryThe use of radiation therapy in locoregional management of breast cancer in patients with most known germline pathogenic variants does not adversely affect clinical outcomes or increase the risk of toxicities. Therefore, radiation therapy should be part of routine management.
Source: Current Breast Cancer Reports - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research