The significance of screening studies for the early detection of metastases in curatively operated breast carcinoma
Fenner, D.; Hofmann, V.
Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift 119(5): 156-159
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0036-7672 PMID: 3238401 Document Number: 311300
A retrospective analysis of 80 women with breast cancer operated on with curative intent showed that metastases developed within 8 years. The value of laboratory tests and radiological surveys for the early detection of metastases is considered. In fewer than 50% of the patients was the finding of a single abnormal laboratory result associated with tumor recurrence. However, when several findings were abnormal concomitantly this suggested tumor dissemination in about 90% of women. In 80% of the patients clinical symptoms were present at the time of tumor recurrence. In only 20% of the patients were metastases clinically silent. Since metastatic breast cancer cannot be cured by present treatment modalities, the relevance of detecting early recurrence is limited.