Breast carcinoma presenting during or shortly after pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) is commonly defined as a breast cancer occurring during pregnancy, throughout 1 year postpartum, or during lactation. Despite being a rare circumstance, PABC is one of the most common types of malignancies occurring during pregnancy and lactation, with growing incidence in developed countries, due both to decreasing age at onset of breast cancer and to increasing maternal age. Diagnosis and management of malignancy in the prenatal and postnatal settings are challenging for practitioners, as the structural and functional changes that the breast undergoes may be misleading for both the radiologist and the clinician. Furthermore, safety concerns for the mother and child, as well as psychological aspects in this unique and delicate condition, need to be constantly considered. In this comprehensive review, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of PABC (including surgery, chemotherapy and other systemic treatments, and radiotherapy) are presented and fully discussed, based on medical literature, current international clinical guidelines, and systematic practice.

ΔN63 suppresses the ability of pregnancy-identified mammary epithelial cells (PIMECs) to drive HER2-positive breast cancer

While pregnancy is known to reduce a woman's life-long risk of breast cancer, clinical data suggest that it can specifically promote HER2 (human EGF receptor 2)-positive breast cancer subtype (HER2+ BC). HER2+ BC, characterized by amplification of HER2, comprises about 20% of all sporadic breast cancers and is more aggressive than hormone receptor-positive breast cancer (the majority of cases). Consistently with human data, pregnancy strongly promotes HER2+ BC in genetic mouse models. One proposed mechanism of this is post-pregnancy accumulation of PIMECs (pregnancy-identified mammary epithelial cells), tumor-initiating cells for HER2+ BC in mice. We previously showed that p63, a homologue of the tumor suppressor p53, is required to maintain the post-pregnancy number of PIMECs and thereby promotes HER2+ BC. Here we set to test whether p63 also affects the intrinsic tumorigenic properties of PIMECs. To this end, we FACS-sorted YFP-labeled PIMECs from p63+/-;ErbB2 and control p63+/+;ErbB2 females and injected their equal amounts into immunodeficient recipients. To our surprise, p63+/- PIMECs showed increased, rather than decreased, tumorigenic capacity in vivo, i.e., significantly accelerated tumor onset and tumor growth, as well as increased self-renewal in mammosphere assays and proliferation in vitro and in vivo. The underlying mechanism of these phenotypes seems to be a specific reduction of the tumor suppressor TAp63 isoform in p63+/- luminal cells, including PIMECs, with concomitant aberrant upregulation of the oncogenic ΔNp63 isoform, as determined by qRT-PCR and scRNA-seq analyses. In addition, scRNA-seq revealed upregulation of several cancer-associated (Il-4/Il-13, Hsf1/HSP), oncogenic (TGFβ, NGF, FGF, MAPK) and self-renewal (Wnt, Notch) pathways in p63+/-;ErbB2 luminal cells and PIMECs per se. Altogether, these data reveal a complex role of p63 in PIMECs and pregnancy-associated HER2+ BC: maintaining the amount of PIMECs while suppressing their intrinsic tumorigenic capacity.

Breast Cancer During Pregnancy: A Marked Propensity to Triple-Negative Phenotype

Breast and cervical cancers comprise 50% of all cancers during pregnancy. In particular, gestational breast cancer is considered one of the most aggressive types of cancers, which is a rare but fatal disease. However, the incidence of this type of cancer is increasing over the years and its prevalence is expected to rise further as more women delay childbearing. Breast cancer occurring after pregnancy is generally triple negative with specific characterizations of a poorer prognosis and outcome. On the other hand, it has been pointed out that this cancer is associated with a specific group of genes which can be used as precise targets to manage this deadly disease. Indeed, combination therapies consisting of gene-based agents with other cancer therapeutics is presently under consideration. We herein review recent progress in understanding the development of breast cancer during pregnancy and their unique subtype of triple negative which is the hallmark of this type of breast cancer.

Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer: What Radiologists Must Know

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) is defined as breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy, in the first year postpartum, or during breastfeeding. Imaging techniques play a significant role in the diagnosis of PABC. It is a challenging diagnosis since physiological changes seen in pregnancy and breastfeeding may limit clinical suspicion and imaging utility. The patient's well-being and the fetus must be taken into consideration for diagnosis and treatment.

Placental supernatants' enhancement of the metastatic potential of breast cancer cells: is estrogen receptor (ERα) essential for this phenomenon?

PURPOSE

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage in comparison to non-pregnant women. The placenta secretes hormones and cytokines, which affect breast cancer progression. Previously, we demonstrated that human placental secretome facilitates the survival and migration of ERα+ breast cancer cells (BCCL), but pregnant women have a relatively high frequency of ERα-negative tumors. In the current study, we analyzed the effect of placental secretome on ERα-negative BCCL.

METHODS

BCCL [MCF-7(estrogen/progesterone receptor positive (ERα+/PR+), ERα reduced MCF-7 (siRNA, MCF-7 ERα-), HS-578 and BT-549 cells (both ER-/PR-)] were exposed to supernatants (collected from first trimester human placental explants and from control BCCL) or to E2 + P4 (estrogen + progesterone) in placental supernatant concentrations and then tested for cell proliferation (number, cell cycle, PCNA), cell-death, cell migration, STAT3 pathway activation and functionality.

RESULTS

Silencing ERα in the MCF-7 cells negated the placental supernatant and E2 + P4 enhancement of cell migration (> 130%, p < 0.05), number (> 120%) and survival (~ 130%). However, it had no such effect on MCF-7-ER- migration, which was still elevated in the presence of placental secretome. ER-/PR- BCCL were unaffected by the hormones, but placental secretome significantly elevated their migration (115%), number (140-170%), STAT3 phosphorylation (~ 180%) and BT-549 STAT3 level. These effects were negated by the STAT3 inhibitor.

CONCLUSIONS

Placental supernatant facilitates BCCL malignant characteristics by activating ERα in estrogen responsive cells and STAT3 in ERα- BCCL. This indicates a possible mechanism that may underlie PABC's advanced state and suggests STAT3 pathway as a therapeutic target for PABC.

Imaging in pregnancy-associated breast cancer: a case report

BACKGROUND

PABC (pregnancy-associated breast cancer) is a rare condition that appears as a malignancy in 1 per 3000 pregnant women and is one of the most common cancers diagnosed during pregnancy or the postpartum period. If a woman who is pregnant or within a year after delivery has complaints of a palpable breast mass, it could undeniably be a malignant mass of the breast. That is why an ultrasound should be performed for all pregnant or lactating women who detect a palpable breast mass that persists for two or more weeks.

CASE REPORT

Our case report presents a pregnant 40-year-old previously healthy female at 36 weeks gestational age with a complaint of a palpable left breast mass for two months period. The initial ultrasound showed a breast tumour of irregular shape, solid and hypervascular mass.

CONCLUSIONS

Early diagnostics of PABC is of crucial importance in order to offer the best possible outcomes for the patient and foetus.

Breast cancer in pregnant patients: A review of the literature

Breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy is a rare occurrence at present; however, in recent years a trend towards delayed childbirth is generating an increase in its incidence. This situation requires a multidisciplinary approach involving obstetricians, oncologists and surgeons. In this review we analyse diagnostic methods, different possible treatments and long-term patient prognosis. We conducted a search for articles published in PubMed, or in abstract form from the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS), the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO), and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting, using the search terms: "Breast cancer and pregnancy". Breast cancer occurring during pregnancy requires extra effort to offer patients the best multidisciplinary management. There is no difference in the pathology-based classification, but breast cancer during pregnancy seems to be associated with different patterns of gene expression. Chemotherapy and surgery are generally safe and well-tolerated by patients during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. The poorer prognosis could be attributed mainly to a delay in diagnosis and because breast cancer in young patients is a more aggressive disease. Finally, balancing the health of mother and child must be paramount.

Pregnancy Associated Breast Cancer: Awareness is the Key to Diagnosis -A Case Report

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) is defined as breast cancer that occurs during pregnancy or within one year of delivery. PABCs are typically found at advanced stage and are reported to have higher recurrence and mortality rates as compared to non PABC. Although it is said to be rare its incidence is increasing. Very little data is available on PABC among Indian women. Delay in diagnosis is one of the major causes of aggressive presentation of PABC. This is due to the fact that most of the lesions presenting during this period are benign and lactational changes hamper the detection of mass clinically as well as by various investigative methods. Paget's disease of breast, usually reported in elderly woman, when occurs in lactating breast may mimic benign eczematous lesion. Increased awareness among patients as well as clinicians is required to detect this highly aggressive form of breast cancer at an early and treatable stage. Treatment is by multidisciplinary approach and depends upon the gestational stage. Here we report a case of PABC in a lactating woman presenting with Paget's disease because such case may be under diagnosed as breast feeding related lesion leading to delayed diagnosis.

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer: optimal treatment options

Cancer is diagnosed approximately once per 1,000 pregnancies; most commonly due to the reproductive age of the women, these include breast, cervical, melanoma, thyroid, and Hodgkin’s lymphoma diagnoses. As a single diagnosis, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed during pregnancy. Cancer is expected to complicate pregnancy more often due to the trend for women to delay child bearing to later maternal ages. Delayed first birth is itself a risk factor for breast cancer. Termination of pregnancy has not been shown to afford a survival benefit. While protecting the interests of mother and unborn fetus, breast cancer can be safely diagnosed, staged, and treated during pregnancy with good outcomes for both. Some modification of the protocols used for nonpregnant women with suspicious palpable breast masses is required. This article reviews the challenges for physicians in making the diagnosis of breast cancer during pregnancy and upon diagnosis, counseling patients about treatment options. The consequences of diagnostic investigations and cancer treatment for the exposed fetus are also addressed.

Specific challenges in treating breast cancer in pregnant women

SUMMARY 

A cancer diagnosis during pregnancy presents a challenge to practitioners and patients. Often diagnosis is delayed. There are limited prospective case series and scant long-term neonatal and maternal data on which to base treatment plans. Also, the majority of pregnancy-associated case series include women diagnosed with breast cancer up to 1 year postpartum. The later-diagnosed group has a poorer prognosis and should be evaluated separately. To avoid attributing breast masses to pregnancy-related changes, masses should be evaluated as if the patient were not pregnant. Mammography, MRI, ultrasound, mastectomy and lumpectomy, axillary dissection, sentinel lymph node biopsy and even chemotherapy during the second and third trimesters can be considered for the pregnant patient with breast cancer.

Placenta-breast cancer cell interactions promote cancer cell epithelial mesenchymal transition via TGFβ/JNK pathway

Women diagnosed with pregnancy associated breast cancer often have advanced cancer with metastases and reduced expression of ERα compared to non-pregnant women. Nevertheless, metastases to the placenta are uncommon. Previously, we demonstrated that breast cancer cells (MCF-7/T47D) migrated from ex vivo human placental explant implantation sites. We aimed to analyze the effect of factors produced during placental implantation or as a result of the interaction between the implanted placentae to cancer cells on cancer cells migration and aggressiveness. We collected supernatants from implanted placentae and placental-breast cancer cells cocultures and analyzed their effects on cancer cells phenotype and pathways. Supernatants collected from breast cancer cells served as controls. We found that supernatants collected from implanted placentae induced modest cancer cells migration that was not accompanied by epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), supported breast cancer cells survival and elevated MCF-7 cell number. The coculture supernatant induced excessive motility and EMT of the MCF-7 cells. This EMT was mediated by Smad3 and JNK/ERK activation. Both placenta and coculture supernatants reduced ERα expression in the cancer cells. Finally, we showed that MCF-7 cocultured with the human placental explants underwent continuous activation of JNK and Smad3 pathways and the EMT process, which led to their migration away from the placental implantation sites. These findings may explain the reduced ERα and elevated metastases found in breast cancer during pregnancy and highlights pathways involved in it.

Breast cancer in pregnancy

Breast cancer staging and treatment are possible during pregnancy, and should be defined in a multidisciplinary setting. Tumour biology, tumour stage, and gestational stage at diagnosis determine the appropriate approach. Surgery for breast cancer is possible during all trimesters of pregnancy. Radiotherapy is possible during pregnancy but, dependent on the fetal dose received, can result in poor fetal outcomes. The decision to give radiotherapy should be made on an individual basis. Evidence increasingly supports administration of chemotherapy from 14 weeks' gestation onwards. New breast cancer treatments might be applicable to pregnant patients, but tamoxifen and trastuzumab are contraindicated during pregnancy. Cancer treatment during pregnancy will decrease the need for early delivery and thus prematurity, which is a major concern in management of breast cancer in pregnancy.

Breast cancer characteristics are modified by first trimester human placenta: in vitro co-culture study

BACKGROUND

Pregnant women with breast cancer present with a more advanced disease compared with non-pregnant women. Nevertheless, breast cancer metastasis to the placenta is rare. Trophoblast/tumor implantations share the same biochemical mediators, while only the first is stringently controlled. We hypothesized that the same mechanisms that affect/restrain placental implantation may inhibit metastatic growth in the placenta. We aimed to analyze the effects of human placenta on breast cancer cells.

METHODS

First trimester human placental explants were co-cultured with MCF-7/T47D-eGFP tagged cells. Following culture, placenta/cancer cells/both were fixed, paraffin embedded and sliced for immunohistochemical analysis or sorted by their eGFP expression for future analysis. The tested parameters were: proliferation (immunohistochemistry)/cell cycle (FACS), apoptosis (immunohistochemistry/FACS), cell count/adhesion/distribution around the placenta (cell sorter, visual observation and counting), matrix metalloproteinase activity (zymogram) and estrogen receptor (ER) expression (western blotting, immunohistochemistry).

RESULTS

Reduced breast cancer cell numbers (45%↓, 48%↓ for MCF-7/T47D, respectively, P < 0.05) were observed near the placenta. The placenta elevated MCF-7 sub-G1 phase and modestly elevated apoptosis (3-17%↑ for T47D/MCF-7, respectively, P < 0.05). Our findings demonstrate breast cancer cell migration from the placenta as: (i) T47D/MCF-7 cells changed their morphology to that of motile cells; (ii) elevated MMPs activity was found in the co-culture; (iii) placental soluble factors detached breast cancer cells; and (4) the placenta reduced MCF-7/T47D cells' ER expression (a characteristic of motile cells).

CONCLUSIONS

MCF-7/T47D cells are eliminated from the placental surroundings. Analyzing the causes of these phenomena may suggest biological pathways for this event and raise new therapeutic targets.

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer: significance of early detection

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) is defined as cancer of the breast diagnosed during pregnancy and up to 1 year postpartum. Delays in diagnosis are frequently associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The aim of this article is to determine the significance of early detection of PABC and to alert health care providers to include PABC in the differential diagnosis when evaluating a breast mass in the perinatal period. This integrative literature review evaluated 15 research studies by using the hypothetical deductive model of clinical reasoning to determine factors related to diagnosis of PABC. As women delay childbearing, the incidence of PABC increases with age. In the reviewed studies, breast cancer was diagnosed with greater frequency in the postpartum period than during any trimester in pregnancy. Delay in diagnosis is complicated by axillary lymph node metastasis, high-grade tumors at diagnosis, and poor outcomes. Early detection is a significant predictor of improved outcomes. Diagnostic modalities such as ultrasound, mammography, and biopsy can be safely used for diagnostic purposes in the evaluation of potential cases of PABC during pregnancy.

[Breast carcinoma during pregnancy]

Pregnancy associated breast cancer includes cancers concurrent with pregnancy and those diagnosed up to 1 year after delivery. The incidence of breast carcinoma in pregnancy is estimated to be approximately 1 in 3000 pregnancies. Due to the difficulties of clinical breast examination, diagnosis is frequently delayed and made when the cancer stage has progressed. Consequently, prognosis is usually poor. Treatment options are limited by concern about harming the fetus and depend on gestational age. We present the case of a 34-year-old woman who was diagnosed with cancer of the right breast in the 28th week of gestation. The patient underwent modified radical mastectomy. This association is uncommon but is not exceptional. Knowledge of cases such as that reported herein will allow early diagnosis and improve the prognosis of these patients.

Breast carcinoma during pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Breast carcinoma during pregnancy (BCP) is a difficult clinical situation, as it appears to put the health of the mother in conflict with that of the fetus.

METHODS

An international expert meeting was conducted to form guidelines on how to diagnose and treat women with BCP.

RESULTS

The goal for treatment of the pregnant woman with breast carcinoma is the same as that of the nonpregnant breast carcinoma patient: local control of disease and prevention of systemic metastases. However, certain treatment modalities need to be modified because of the potential for adverse effects on the fetus. There is evidence to support the safety of anthracycline-based chemotherapy during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy (Oxford Level of Evidence [LOE] 2b). Because of the lack of evidence, the expert opinion was not to recommend the routine use of newer cytotoxic drugs like the taxanes during pregnancy (LOE 5).

CONCLUSION

The recommendations provided should help to reach informed decision making by the patient. The ongoing prospective collection of data on BCP, such as that at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center (UTMDACC) and that of the German Breast Group/Breast International Group (GBG/BIG), is necessary to further our knowledge regarding the treatment of this unique group of breast carcinoma patients.

Treatment of pregnant breast cancer patients and outcomes of children exposed to chemotherapy in utero

BACKGROUND

As women in the US delay childbearing, it has been hypothesized that the incidence of breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy will increase. There are very little prospective data on the treatment of pregnant women with breast cancer with chemotherapy and even less data on the outcomes of their children who were exposed to chemotherapy in utero.

METHODS

Fifty-seven pregnant breast cancer patients were treated on a single-arm, multidisciplinary, institutional review board-approved protocol with FAC (5-fluorouracil, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide) in the adjuvant (n = 32) or neoadjuvant (n = 25) setting. Parents/guardians were surveyed by mail or telephone regarding outcomes of children exposed to chemotherapy in utero.

RESULTS

Of the 57 women, 40 are alive and disease-free, 3 have recurrent breast cancer, 12 died from breast cancer, 1 died from other causes, and 1 was lost to follow-up. Of the 25 patients who received neoadjuvant FAC, 6 had a pathologic complete response, whereas 4 had no tumor response to chemotherapy and eventually died from their disease. All women who delivered had live births. One child has Down syndrome and 2 have congenital anomalies (club foot; congenital bilateral ureteral reflux). The children are healthy and those in school are doing well, although 2 have special educational needs.

CONCLUSIONS

Breast cancer can be treated with FAC chemotherapy during the second and third trimesters without significant short-term complications for the majority of children exposed to chemotherapy in utero. Longer follow-up of the children is needed to evaluate possible late side effects such as impaired cardiac function and fertility.

The pregnant mother with breast cancer: Diagnostic and therapeutic management

This review describes the epidemiology, pathology, clinical picture and therapeutic management of pregnant women with breast cancer. In addition, it covers other important issues like the safety of both diagnostic and treatment procedures, the indications for pregnancy termination, the mother and fetal outcome as well as the metastatic potential to the placenta and/or fetus. Several recommendations are also provided.

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer

PRECIS

Breast masses discovered during pregnancy should receive thorough evaluation. Delay in the diagnosis of breast cancer in pregnancy may cause increased mortality and should be avoided. As women delay childbearing, the incidence of breast cancer during pregnancy may increase. This article aims to review the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and diagnostic and therapeutic approach to the pregnant breast cancer patient. In addition, the impact of pregnancy on subsequent breast cancer development in high-risk groups, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation carriers and patients with a prior history of breast cancer, is discussed. SOURCES AND STUDY SELECTION: We conducted a PubMed search using the words breast, cancer, carcinoma, and pregnancy. We also searched for abstracts presented at the American Society for Clinical Oncology meetings using the words breast cancer and pregnancy. Observational studies were not pooled because of the disparity of the data. We reviewed 117 articles and three abstracts referring to breast cancer in pregnancy.

RESULT

A thorough breast examination at the first antenatal visit, before the physiologic changes in breast parenchyma obscure a possible mass, is essential. The work-up of masses detected during pregnancy should not be postponed until after delivery. Delays in diagnosis may contribute to the higher proportion of patients with advanced stage at presentation. The prognosis of the pregnant breast cancer patient is similar to her stage-matched nonpregnant counterparts in most series. Radiation therapy is contraindicated during pregnancy; this limits breast conservation to cases presenting during the third trimester. Some chemotherapies can be administered during the second and third trimesters. Therapeutic abortion is not necessary, although women with high-risk disease may find this preferable. Women with a history of breast cancer should be reassured that subsequent pregnancy is not known to increase the risk of recurrence. Women with a history of BRCA1/2 mutations should not be advised that early pregnancy decreases their breast cancer risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Physicians should aggressively pursue work-up in women with a palpable breast mass because early diagnosis may improve the prognosis of breast cancer during pregnancy.

Breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy and lactation: biological features and treatment options

AIM OF THE STUDY

Assessment of biological features and treatment of patients with breast cancer presenting during pregnancy or lactation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Immunohistochemical analysis of estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PgR), Ki-67, HER2/neu, prognostic markers, treatment and follow-up of 21 patients with breast cancer during pregnancy (BCdP) and 17 with breast cancer during lactation (BCdL) are presented.

RESULTS

Median age was 36 and 33 years, median tumour size was 2.4 and 2.5 cm, axillary lymph nodes were positive in 10 of 21 pregnant patients and 11 of 17 lactating patients, respectively. Both ER and PgR were not expressed in six of 21 pregnant women and nine of 17 lactating patients. All the six women who had concurrent diagnosis of breast cancer and pregnancy (first trimester) preferred termination of pregnancy although an alternative option was discussed. Five patients received anthracycline containing chemotherapy during the second and third trimester with no complications for patient and child. Conservative surgery was performed in 15 of 21 patients during pregnancy with no local reappearance after a median follow-up of 24 months. Three pregnant women underwent lymphoscintigraphy and sentinel lymph node biopsy.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients who had concurrent diagnosis of breast cancer and pregnancy (early first trimester) preferred termination of pregnancy to allow easier completion of treatment. Conservative surgery was safe also in women with BCdP. Sentinel node biopsy might be considered for pregnant patients with a clinically negative axilla.

Palpable right breast mass in a pregnant woman

BACKGROUND

A 29-year-old female presented with a palpable right breast mass at a 12-week prenatal visit. She had no family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Ultrasound revealed a 3 cm lobulated mass, which was confirmed to be malignant by a core biopsy. Postmastectomy pathology at 15 weeks' gestation demonstrated this mass to be a stage T2N0M0 high-grade invasive ductal carcinoma with 0/20 axillary nodes involved. A staging CT scan postpartum showed an enlarged right internal mammary lymph node, confirmed by MRI as suspicious for malignancy.

INVESTIGATIONS

Physical examination, breast ultrasound, core biopsy, mastectomy, CT scan, MRI.

DIAGNOSIS

Pregnancy-associated breast carcinoma.

MANAGEMENT

Mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Worse survival in breast cancer among women with recent childbirth: results from a Swedish population-based register study

This study was designed to investigate how time since childbirth affects breast cancer survival using unselected population-based data linking data from the Swedish Cancer Registry, fertility register, and population census registers. A total of 14,693 parous women < or =45 years of age with breast cancer were identified. Information on deaths was collected, and 5- and 10-year survival rates were calculated according to time since most recent childbirth. Mortality during the first 10 years of follow-up was further investigated in a Cox analysis, with adjustments for age at diagnosis, time period during which the diagnosis was made, number of children, and age at the time of the first child's birth. Women with diagnosis during pregnancy had a 5-year survival rate of 52.1% (95% CI, 41.2%-61.9%) and a 10-year survival rate of 43.9% (95% CI, 33.1%-54.2%), compared with survival rates of 80.0% (95% CI, 79.6%-81.4%) and 68.6% (95% CI, 67.5%-69.7%), respectively, in women diagnosed >10 years since childbirth. In the multivariate model, we found that time since childbirth was associated with inferior survival rates in cases of diagnosis <8 years after childbirth, in which the lowest survival rates were seen in women with diagnosis during pregnancy in the first 5 years of follow-up (adjusted relative risk compared with women with >10 years since last childbirth, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.8-3.4). The adjusted hazard ratios could be described by a decreasing function of a logarithmic transformation of years since childbirth. We found that the time of follow-up was of importance, in that women with a recent pregnancy had particularly lower survival rates during the first 5 years after diagnosis. The mechanisms behind the poor survival in breast cancer for women with recent childbirth are not known, but we suggest that one explanation might be a lower proportion of hormone receptor-positive tumors.

Case control study of novel prognostic markers and disease outcome in pregnancy/lactation-associated breast carcinoma

A case control study of pregnancy/lactation associated breast carcinoma (PAC) was conducted on 24 test cases with two controls per case, matching age, tumor grade, tumor size and axillary lymph nodes status. During seven years of this study, 6% of all patients with breast cancer had PAC. In this study, 67% of the test cases showed positive axillary lymph nodes compared to 49% in our series of 315 cases of non-pregnancy/non-lactating women with breast carcinoma (p < 0.05). The expression of nine prognostic markers, i.e. ER, PR, p53, C-erbB-2, EGFR, Cathepsin-D, PCNA, DNA ploidy and S-phase fraction, were studied by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. Hormone receptor status showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups, i.e. 29% immunoreactivity in test cases compared to 58% in controls with a p value of 0.007. Among p53, C-erbB-2, EGFR and Cathepsin-D in the test group, only EGFR showed a significant correlation, i.e. 33% immunoreactivity in test cases and 19% immunoreactivity in controls (p < 0.05). Higher PCNA positivity was seen in the test group compared to controls, i.e. 35% in test patients and 28% in controls (p < 0.05). Metastasis to bone and liver was a common feature of test patients as compared to controls (p < 0.05). After a median follow-up of 72 months, there was no significant difference in the overall survival (OS) of test cases and controls as 54% deaths were recorded in test patients and 44% in controls at the end of this study (p > 0.05). In summary, in spite of some significant differences in the expression of few prognostic markers, i.e. ER/PR, EGFR, PCNA and metastatic potential, there was no significant difference in the OS of PAC vs. control group if compared stage for stage.

Breast carcinoma in pregnant women: assessment of clinicopathologic and immunohistochemical features

BACKGROUND

Breast carcinoma is one of the most common carcinomas in pregnant women. The incidence of breast carcinoma may increase in the future because of the trend toward delayed childbearing and increased screening. However, very few contemporary studies have attempted to identify the combined histopathologic and immunohistochemical features of breast carcinoma in these patients.

METHODS

The authors evaluated 39 patients with breast carcinoma occurring coincident with pregnancy. This was comprised of a critical histologic review and immunohistochemical evaluation to determine the status of prognostic and predictive markers including estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), HER-2/neu, Ki-67, and p53.

RESULTS

The mean age at presentation was 33 years (range, 24-44 years). Densities and/or masses were noted on mammograms in 14 of 16 patients with available radiographic information. The primary tumors were a mean of 4.5 cm in greatest dimension (range, 0.1-13.5 cm). Two of the 39 patients had clinical (American Joint Committee on Cancer) Stage I disease, 19 patients had Stage II disease, 16 had Stage III disease, and 2 patients had Stage IV disease at the time of presentation. Histologically, high-grade invasive ductal carcinomas were found in 32 of 38 patients. The primary tumor was not available for review in one patient. A predominantly solid pattern of growth was observed in nine patients. Lymphovascular invasion was identified in 61% of cases. Ductal carcinoma in situ was identified in 72% of tumors and was high grade in all cases. Of the 25 patients tested, ER positivity was found in 7 patients, PR positivity was found in 6 patients, HER-2/neu positivity was found in 7 patients, and p53 positivity was found in 12 patients. The proliferation rate as shown by Ki-67 staining was high in 60% of the cases. Follow-up information was available for 35 patients and the mean follow-up period was 43 months (range, 2-163 months). Distant metastasis occurred in seven patients. The mean time to disease recurrence was 20.4 months (range, 10-33 months). Of 35 patients, 4 have died, 22 were alive with no evidence of disease, and 9 were alive with disease at the last follow-up. The remaining four patients died of unknown causes.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant women with breast carcinomas generally present with advanced-stage disease and the tumors have poor histologic and prognostic features. The findings from the follow-up indicated that these tumors do not follow a very aggressive clinical course as was proposed in earlier reports. Breast carcinomas occurring during pregnancy share many histologic and prognostic similarities with breast carcinoma occurring in other young women.

Breast cancer and pregnancy: a diagnostic and management dilemma

BACKGROUND

The purpose of the present paper was to review the current knowledge of pregnancy concurrent with a diagnosis of breast cancer, and how best to manage this group of women and those breast cancer survivors who may subsequently conceive.

RESULTS

Pregnancy-associated breast cancer or gestational breast cancer is defined as breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy or in the 12 months post-partum. A review of the current literature on breast cancer-related pregnancy suggests an incidence of between 0.7 and 3.9%. The prognosis is thought not to be significantly different from non-pregnancy-associated breast cancer, except in cases where a delay in diagnosis is associated with more advanced disease. The treatment is similar to non-pregnant cases, with the exception of radiotherapy, which is contraindicated throughout pregnancy; and chemotherapy, which is contraindicated during the first trimester. Few breast cancer survivors go on to conceive, but those who do have no worse breast cancer or pregnancy outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Most of the research in this field has come from small, specialized institutions and may not reflect what occurs in the wider community. Further population-based research in this area is needed, and is currently being undertaken in Western Australia.

Management of breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy

Breast cancer during pregnancy is generally defined as cancer occurring during pregnancy or within 1 year of delivery, although treatment options are the most complicated when the disease is diagnosed during gestation. The challenges of treatment during gestation are discussed in this article. In general, a pregnant woman with breast cancer should be treated similarly to the nonpregnant patient, with specific recommendations tailored to gestational age at diagnosis, stage of the tumor, and the personal preferences of the patient. Despite the increasing literature focusing on treatment decisions, there are little prospective data regarding treatment or long-term outcome information to provide toxicity data that can be used to advise patients and guide decisions. Most of the retrospective and anecdotal data are based on the possibility of fetal loss or demise with specific treatment or treatment administered at specific times during pregnancy. Therefore, it is impossible to accurately quantify risks to the fetus or the mother, and decisions should be made after careful discussion between the patient, her family, and the medical team. The physician must have a clear understanding of the pharmacology and teratogenic potential of individual agents, thus limiting risks.

Multidisciplinary management of breast cancer concurrent with pregnancy

The management of PABC is very difficult. The incidence of PABC is low, but may be increasing because of the number of women who are becoming pregnant at a later age. More investigation is needed to understand whether the biology of PABC is different from that of breast cancer in nonpregnant women. One exciting area of further research is the potential relationship between mutations in known breast cancer susceptibility genes and breast cancer development during pregnancy. Diagnosis or PABC remains challenging because of the anatomic and physiologic changes that occur in the breast during pregnancy. Understanding the generic influences on PABC may help physicians in diagnosing this disease earlier, and understanding the tumor-receptor characteristics of PABC can help physicians deliver effective treatment. The various modalities available for treatment of PABC and their risks and benefits must be discussed openly with patients and their families. Abortion is not usually recommended. Modified radical mastectomy is the recommended treatment for PABC diagnosed during the first trimester. Neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy can be given with minimal risks to the fetus during the second or third trimester. Radiation therapy is contraindicated during pregnancy because of the potential for injury to the fetus. Breast conservation therapy, with radiation treatments given after delivery or after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, is an option for women with PABC diagnosed late in pregnancy. Once the appropriate treatment modality is chosen, its implementation must not be delayed because of the pregnancy. Most of the literature shows that women with PABC have the same survival stage for stage as nonpregnant women with breast cancer. But some studies suggest that the prognosis is worse for patients who present with advanced-stage PABC. Finally, recurrence and survival in most patients previously treated for breast cancer do not appear to be adversely affected by subsequent pregnancy. Above all, the patient with breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy is best served by early and continued involvement of a multidisciplinary cancer treatment team.

Expression of prolactin receptors in normal, benign, and malignant breast tissue: an immunohistological study

AIMS

Prolactin plays an important role in the proliferation and differentiation of normal breast epithelium, and possibly in the development of breast carcinoma. The effects of prolactin are mediated by its receptor; thus, alteration in the expression of this receptor could be important in studying the biology of breast cancer. This investigation was aimed at comparing the expression of prolactin receptors in normal, benign, and malignant breast tissue.

MATERIAL/METHODS

The expression of prolactin receptors was studied in paraffin wax embedded sections of 102 breast biopsies (93 female and nine male), using the monoclonal antibody B6.2, and the avidin-biotin immunoperoxidase technique. Six biopsies were normal, 34 had benign lesions, and 62 were malignant.

RESULTS

In normal cases, prolactin receptor positivity was seen only on the luminal borders of the epithelial cells lining ducts and acini. In most benign lesions, variable degrees of luminal and cytoplasmic staining were seen. Cells showing apocrine metaplasia and florid regular ductal epithelial hyperplasia were mostly negative. In malignant cases, the staining pattern was mostly cytoplasmic and heterogeneous. Forty one of the 59 carcinomas in women showed a degree of positivity involving 10-100% of the tumour cells. A significant direct correlation was found between prolactin receptor and oestrogen receptor staining when only cases that scored more than 100/300 for the latter receptor, using the H scoring system, were considered (p = 0.0207). No correlation was found between prolactin receptors and progesterone receptors, patient's age, tumour size, tumour grade, or axillary lymph node status.

CONCLUSIONS

Prolactin receptors seem to be expressed at different cellular sites in normal, benign, and malignant breast epithelial cells. The receptor is expressed in more than two thirds of female breast carcinomas, suggesting that it may play a role in the pathogenesis of the disease. The positivity is correlated with moderate and strong staining for oestrogen receptors in tissue sections, but not with other prognostic factors.