Women With Very Early Breast Cancer May Safely Skip Radiation Therapy: Study
New research suggests that it may be safe for some women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), an early form of breast cancer, to forego follow-up radiation therapy after surgery.
Study finds that women with early breast cancer can safely skip radiation treatment.
Did you know that some women with a very early form of breast cancer may be able to skip radiation therapy after surgery? That’s right, according to new research from Northwestern University, certain patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) may not need this follow-up treatment. Intrigued? Let’s dive into the details.
Understanding DCIS
DCIS, or ductal carcinoma in situ, is a common form of breast malignancy. But what exactly does that mean? Well, it occurs when the cells lining the milk ducts of the breast become cancerous, although they haven’t spread into the surrounding breast tissue. Even though DCIS is considered “pre-invasive” cancer, it is typically treated with surgery, either through mastectomy or breast-conserving lumpectomy, to prevent the development of more invasive disease elsewhere in the breast.
The Debate over Radiation Therapy
Traditionally, follow-up radiation therapy has been ordered after surgery for patients with DCIS. However, there is growing concern that this treatment may be unnecessary for many women. This led researchers at Northwestern University to explore whether some patients could safely avoid radiation therapy.
Genetic Testing for Personalized Treatment
The key to determining whether a patient can skip radiation therapy lies in the results of a genetic test called the Oncotype DX Breast DCIS Score. This test examines the expression of cancer-linked genes in the DCIS breast tissue and generates a score ranging from 0 to 100. A higher score indicates a higher risk of cancer recurrence.
The Study Findings
In the study conducted by Northwestern University, 171 women who underwent lumpectomy for DCIS were included. Their DCIS breast tissue was subjected to the Oncotype DX Breast DCIS Score test. Patients with a score below 39 were considered to be at relatively low risk for cancer recurrence and were eligible to skip radiation therapy. On the other hand, those with a score of 39 or higher were recommended to receive radiation therapy.
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The results were promising. Tracking outcomes five years after each patient’s surgery, the researchers found that the rates of cancer recurrence were similar, about 5%, in both the low-risk group who skipped radiation therapy and the higher-risk group who underwent the treatment. This suggests that skipping radiation therapy did not raise the risk of recurrence among women whose tests allowed them to opt out.
Implications of the Study
These findings open up a new approach to guiding treatment decisions for patients with DCIS. By using personalized diagnostic tools like the Oncotype DX Breast DCIS Score test, doctors can better predict the risk of recurrence and tailor treatment plans accordingly. This not only prevents excessive treatment for some patients but also provides peace of mind for those who may be able to avoid radiation therapy.
Addressing Your Concerns: Q&A
Q: Should all women with DCIS consider skipping radiation therapy?
A: Not necessarily. The decision to skip radiation therapy should be made based on the results of the Oncotype DX Breast DCIS Score test. Patients with a score below 39 are considered low risk and may safely skip radiation therapy, while those with a higher score are still recommended to receive the treatment.
Q: What are the risks of skipping radiation therapy?
A: The study found that skipping radiation therapy in the low-risk group did not increase the risk of cancer recurrence during the five-year follow-up period. However, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before making a decision.
Q: How can I find out if I am eligible to skip radiation therapy?
A: Talk to your healthcare provider about the possibility of undergoing the Oncotype DX Breast DCIS Score test. This will help determine your risk of cancer recurrence and guide the decision-making process regarding radiation therapy.
Q: What are alternative treatments for DCIS?
A: Besides surgery and radiation therapy, other treatments for DCIS may include hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or clinical trials. The best treatment plan for you will depend on various factors, including the characteristics of your specific DCIS.
Conclusion
This groundbreaking study from Northwestern University suggests that some women with early-stage breast cancer may be able to skip radiation therapy after surgery. By using personalized diagnostic tools like the Oncotype DX Breast DCIS Score test, doctors can better predict the risk of recurrence and provide tailored treatment plans. However, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider and undergo appropriate testing before making any treatment decisions.
Remember, each individual’s situation may vary, and what works for one person may not work for another. Stay informed, ask questions, and work closely with your medical team to find the best course of action for your specific needs.
References
- Women With Very Early Breast Cancer May Safely Skip Radiation Rx: Study
- DCIS and Its Treatment – American Cancer Society
