Study: Breast-Conserving Therapy Preferred Except When Moderate Risk of Recurrence

Breast-conserving therapy may be the preferred treatment for cancer located in the breast ducts (ductal carcinoma in situ [DCIS]), except for women with a moderate risk of local recurrence, according to researchers at the University of Toronto.

In their study published in the journal Cancer, researchers used a decision analysis model to determine which of four treatment options is best for women who have had surgery for DCIS: mastectomy, irradiation, irradiation plus tamoxifen, or observation.

The treatment model weighted the potential benefits of each treatment approach against the potential risks of treatment-related toxicities. The model adjusted for the potential detrimental impact of local recurrence or treatment-related toxicity on health-related quality of life.

Researchers concluded that breast conserving therapy was the preferred treatment for DCIS, and the biggest factors in optimal management of DCIS included the risk of local recurrence.

Other Sources: Cancer