AI Article Synopsis
- Older patients with breast cancer, especially those aged 70 and above, often lack representation in studies, making tailored treatment recommendations challenging.
- Geriatric assessments can help predict survival and quality of life, influencing treatment choices such as opting for less invasive surgery or forgoing radiation therapy.
- Surgery remains a key treatment, but older women may experience higher rates of mastectomy; those not choosing surgery increasingly rely on endocrine therapy and hospice care for support.
Article Abstract
Purpose Of Review: Breast cancer incidence and mortality increase with age. Older patients (≥ 70) are often excluded from studies. Due to multiple factors, it is unclear whether this population is best-treated using standard guidelines. Here, we review surgical management in older women with breast cancer.
Recent Findings: Geriatric assessments can guide treatment recommendations and aid in predicting survival and quality of life. Surgery remains a principal component of breast cancer treatment in older patients, though differences exist compared with younger women, including higher mastectomy rates and evidence-based support of omission of post-lumpectomy radiation or axillary dissection in subsets of patients. In those forgoing surgical management, there is increased use of endocrine therapy. Hospice is also a valuable element of end-of-life care. Physicians should utilize geriatric assessment to make treatment recommendations for older breast cancer patients, including omission of radiation therapy, alterations to standard surgeries, or enrollment in hospice care.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11912-019-0822-2 | DOI Listing |
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