"Inflammatory" breast cancer

Surg Oncol. 2005 Nov;14(3):133-43. doi: 10.1016/j.suronc.2005.07.004. Epub 2005 Sep 9.

Abstract

Background: "Inflammatory" breast cancer is a rare and very aggressive form of the disease characterised by rapid onset and dismal outcome.

Methods: This review describes the clinical and molecular aspects of inflammatory breast cancer. The relevant English language literature on of inflammatory breast cancer was searched via Medline and ISI Web of Knowledge Cross Search (1924-2005), cross-referencing with key articles on the subject.

Results and conclusion: An increasing body of evidence demonstrates that inflammatory breast cancer is a unique form of breast cancer. A prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary approach (based on neoadjuvant chemotherapy, loco-regional treatment with surgery and/or radiotherapy, followed in some cases by adjuvant systemic therapy) are the two factors most likely to have an impact on survival. As the molecular basis of the disease is becoming increasingly more defined, new potential therapeutic targets may arise in the future.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Breast Neoplasms / physiopathology*
  • Breast Neoplasms / therapy
  • Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Inflammation*
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Prognosis
  • Radiotherapy, Adjuvant