Simultaneous detection of circulating and disseminated tumor cells in primary breast cancer patients following neoadjuvant chemotherapy

ConclusionsBoth CTCs and DTCs are detectable after NACT. As we could not show a significant relationship between CTC detection, DTC detection and pCR, all three methods may provide independent information regarding treatment response. Since we were unable to show a significant impact on survival, larger prospective studies that include CTCs and DTCs are needed. These trials should include the molecular characterization of primary tumor tissue, CTCs and DTCs to determine whether these cells are independent subpopulations of malignant cell clones.
Source: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics - Category: OBGYN Source Type: research