De-escalating and escalating systemic therapy of early breast cancer

De-Escalating the Management of In Situ and Invasive Breast Cancer

Simple Summary

De-escalation of breast cancer treatment reduces morbidity and toxicity for patients. De-escalation is safe if cancer outcomes, such as recurrence and survival, remain unaffected compared to more radical regimens. This review provides an overview on treatment de-escalation for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), local treatment of breast cancer, and surgery after neoadjuvant systemic therapy. Improvements in understanding the natural history and biology of breast cancer, imaging modalities, and adjuvant treatments have facilitated de-escalation of treatment over time.

Abstract

It is necessary to identify appropriate areas of de-escalation in breast cancer treatment to minimize morbidity and maximize patients’ quality of life. Less radical treatment modalities, or even no treatment, have been reconsidered if they offer the same oncologic outcomes as standard therapies. Identifying which patients benefit from de-escalation requires particular care, as standard therapies will continue to offer adequate cancer outcomes. We provide an overview of the literature on the de-escalation of treatment of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), local treatment of breast cancer, and surgery after neoadjuvant systemic therapy. De-escalation of breast cancer treatment is a key area of investigation that will continue to remain a priority. Improvements in understanding the natural history and biology of breast cancer, imaging modalities, and adjuvant treatments will expand this even further. Future efforts will continue to challenge us to consider the true role of various treatment modalities.

Diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ in an era of de-escalation of therapy

Concerns about overdiagnosis and overtreatment have led to interest in de-escalating treatment for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). This article reviews the epidemiology, natural history, and current treatment options for DCIS and discusses ongoing efforts to further de-escalate treatment for these patients.