Evaluation of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes as a prognostic biomarker in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast.

PURPOSE: To assess the association between tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) samples and disease recurrence. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included women aged 18 years and older who underwent treatment between January 2007 and December 2020. Male patients, individuals diagnosed with invasive or microinvasive disease based on anatomopathological examination of surgical specimens, and those with a personal history of any other cancers were excluded. Additionally, the presence of "touching TILs" (lymphocytes in direct contact with tumor cells) and periductal desmoplasia were evaluated as complementary methods to represent the immunological microenvironment. The primary outcome was relapse-free survival based on TIL quantification adjusted for potential confounders. Pathologists assessed TILs in the sample with the highest tumor representation and quantified them as a percentage. Survival was evaluated using Kaplan‒Meier curves, log-rank tests, and Cox regression models. RESULTS: A total of 191 patients met the eligibility criteria. The mean follow-up duration was 77.2 months, with a recurrence rate of 9.2%. Patients with TILs ≥ 17% had a greater risk of recurrence (HR 2.97, 95% CI 1.17-7.51; p = 0.02). Additionally, focal necrosis (HR 6.4, 95% CI 1.39-34.71; p = 0.018) or comedonecrosis (HR 4.53, 95% CI 1.34-15.28; p = 0.015) were associated with increased recurrence risk. According to the multivariate model, comedonecrosis and TILs ≥ 17% were significantly associated with recurrence (p = 0.034 and p = 0.035, respectively). Regarding the evaluations of "touching TILs" and periductal desmoplasia, no statistical significance was found when assessing their association with disease recurrence. CONCLUSION: In our cohort, a high percentage of TILs (≥ 17%) and the presence of comedonecrosis were independently associated with DCIS recurrence.

Effects of preoperative magnetic resonance image on survival rates and surgical planning in breast cancer conservative surgery: randomized controlled trial (BREAST-MRI trial).

BACKGROUND: Breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has high sensitivity in detecting invasive neoplasms. Controversy remains about its impact on the preoperative staging of breast cancer surgery. This study evaluated survival and surgical outcomes of preoperative MRI in conservative breast cancer surgery. METHODS: A phase III, randomized, open-label, single-center trial including female breast cancer participants, stage 0-III disease, and eligible for breast-conserving surgery. We compared the role of including MRI in preoperative evaluation versus radiologic exam routine with mammography and ultrasound in breast cancer conservative candidates. The primary outcome was local relapse-free survival (LRFS), and secondary outcomes were overall survival (OS), mastectomy rate, and reoperation rate. RESULTS: 524 were randomized to preoperative MRI group (n = 257) or control group (n = 267). The survival analysis showed a 5.9-years LRFS of 99.2% in MRI group versus 98.9% in control group (HR = 0.72; 95% CI 0.12-4.28; p = 0.7) and an OS of 95.3% in the MRI group versus 96.3% in the control group (HR = 1.37 95% CI 0.59-3.19; p = 0.8). Surgical management changed in 21 ipsilateral breasts in the MRI group; 21 (8.3%) had mastectomies versus one in the control group. No difference was found in reoperation rates, 22 (8.7%) in the MRI group versus 23 (8.7%) in the control group (RR = 1.002; 95% CI 0.57-1.75; p = 0.85). CONCLUSION: Preoperative MRI increased the mastectomy rates by 8%. The use of preoperative MRI did not influence local relapse-free survival, overall survival, or reoperation rates.

Skin-sparing mastectomy for the treatment of breast cancer.

BACKGROUND: Skin-sparing mastectomy (SSM) is a surgical technique that aims to maximize skin preservation, facilitate breast reconstruction, and improve cosmetic outcomes. Despite its use in clinical practice, the benefits and harms related to SSM are not well established. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effectiveness and safety of skin-sparing mastectomy for the treatment of breast cancer. SEARCH METHODS: We searched Cochrane Breast Cancer's Specialized Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS, the World Health Organization's International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO ICTRP), and ClinicalTrials.gov on 9 August 2019. SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-randomized or non-randomized studies (cohort and case-control) comparing SSM to conventional mastectomy for treating ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or invasive breast cancer. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. The primary outcome was overall survival. Secondary outcomes were local recurrence free-survival, adverse events (including overall complications, breast reconstruction loss, skin necrosis, infection and hemorrhage), cosmetic results, and quality of life. We performed a descriptive analysis and meta-analysis of the data. MAIN RESULTS: We found no RCTs or quasi-RCTs. We included two prospective cohort studies and twelve retrospective cohort studies. These studies included 12,211 participants involving 12,283 surgeries (3183 SSM and 9100 conventional mastectomies). It was not possible to perform a meta-analysis for overall survival and local recurrence free-survival due to clinical heterogeneity across studies and a lack of data to calculate hazard ratios (HR).  Based on one study, the evidence suggests that SSM may not reduce overall survival for participants with DCIS tumors (HR 0.41, 95% CI 0.17 to 1.02; P = 0.06; 399 participants; very low-certainty evidence) or for participants with invasive carcinoma (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.38; P = 0.44; 907 participants; very low-certainty evidence). For local recurrence-free survival, meta-analysis was not possible, due to high risk of bias in nine of the ten studies that measured this outcome. Informal visual examination of effect sizes from nine studies suggested the size of the HR may be similar between groups. Based on one study that adjusted for confounders, SSM may not reduce local recurrence-free survival (HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.47 to 1.42; P = 0.48; 5690 participants; very low-certainty evidence).  The effect of SSM on overall complications is unclear (RR 1.55, 95% CI 0.97 to 2.46; P = 0.07, I2 = 88%; 4 studies, 677 participants; very low-certainty evidence). Skin-sparing mastectomy may not reduce the risk of breast reconstruction loss (RR 1.79, 95% CI 0.31 to 10.35; P = 0.52; 3 studies, 475 participants; very low-certainty evidence), skin necrosis (RR 1.15, 95% CI 0.62 to 2.12; P = 0.22, I2 = 33%; 4 studies, 677 participants; very low-certainty evidence), local infection (RR 2.04, 95% CI 0.03 to 142.71; P = 0.74, I2 = 88%; 2 studies, 371 participants; very low-certainty evidence), nor hemorrhage (RR 1.23, 95% CI 0.47 to 3.27; P = 0.67, I2 = 0%; 4 studies, 677 participants; very low-certainty evidence). We downgraded the certainty of the evidence due to the risk of bias, imprecision, and inconsistency among the studies. There were no data available on the following outcomes: systemic surgical complications, local complications, explantation of implant/expander, hematoma, seroma, rehospitalization, skin necrosis with revisional surgery, and capsular contracture of the implant. It was not possible to perform a meta-analysis for cosmetic and quality of life outcomes due to a lack of data. One study performed an evaluation of aesthetic outcome after SSM: 77.7% of participants with immediate breast reconstruction had an overall aesthetic result of excellent or good versus 87% of participants with delayed breast reconstruction. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Based on very low-certainty evidence from observational studies, it was not possible to draw definitive conclusions on the effectiveness and safety of SSM for breast cancer treatment. The decision for this technique of breast surgery for treatment of DCIS or invasive breast cancer must be individualized and shared between the physician and the patient while considering the potential risks and benefits of available surgical options.

The oncological safety of autologous fat grafting: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To present a systematic review of the literature and a meta-analysis evaluating the oncological safety of autologous fat grafting (AFG). SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA: AFG for breast reconstruction presents difficulties during follow-up radiological exams, and the oncological potential of grafted fat is uncertain. Previous studies confirmed that the fatty tissue could be transferred under a good condition suitable would not interfere with mammographic follow-up, although the issue of oncological safety remains. METHODS: We reviewed the literature published until 01/18/2021. The outcomes were overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and local recurrence (LR). We included studies that evaluated women with breast cancer who undergone surgery followed by reconstruction with AFG. We synthesized data using the inverse variance method on the log-HR (log of the hazard ratio) scale for time-to-event outcomes using RevMan. We assessed heterogeneity using the Chi2 and I2 statistics. RESULTS: Fifteen studies evaluating 8541 participants were included. The hazard ratios (HR) could be extracted from four studies, and there was no difference in OS between the AFG group and control (HR 0.9, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.54, p = 0.71, I2 = 58%, moderate certainty evidence), and publication bias was not detected. The HR for DFS could be extracted from six studies, and there was no difference between the AFG group and control (HR 1.01, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.38, p = 0.96, I2 = 0%, moderate certainty evidence). The HR for LR could be extracted from ten studies, and there was no difference between the AFG group and control (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.12, p = 0.43, I2 = 1%, moderate certainty evidence). CONCLUSION: According to the current evidence, AFG is a safe technique of breast reconstruction for patients that have undergone BC surgery and did not affect OS, DFS, or LR.

MRI to Predict Nipple Involvement in Breast Cancer Patients.

OBJECTIVE: The selection of breast cancer patients as candidates for nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is dependent on the preoperative detection of neoplastic involvement of the nipple-areola complex (NAC). This cross-sectional study was designed to evaluate the accuracy of preoperative breast MRI as a noninvasive method to predict neoplastic involvement of the nipple. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We included 165 female breast cancer patients with a surgical plan that included total mastectomy or breast conservation surgery with the removal of the NAC. All patients underwent MRI before surgery on a 1.5-T unit with a 4-channel in vivo dedicated surface breast coil. One radiologist who was blinded to the results of the histologic evaluations of the specimens evaluated the MRI studies. RESULTS: Of the 170 mastectomy specimens evaluated, 37 (21.8%) had neoplastic involvement of the NAC. The MRI findings of enhancement between the index lesion and the NAC and of nipple retraction were considered statistically significant predictors of nipple involvement in breast cancer patients (p < 0.01 and p = 0.01, respectively). The negative predictive value of the combination of these MRI findings was 83.3%. CONCLUSION: Breast MRI is a safe noninvasive method to preoperatively evaluate breast cancer patients eligible for NSM with a high specificity and a high negative predictive value when enhancement between the index lesion and the nipple and nipple retraction are analyzed.

Triple-negative and luminal A breast tumors: differential expression of miR-18a-5p, miR-17-5p, and miR-20a-5p.

New concepts in epigenetics, microRNAs, and gene expression analysis have significantly enhanced knowledge of cancer pathogenesis over the last decade. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by base pairing with target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), resulting in the repression of translation or the degradation of mRNA. To compare the carcinogenic process in tumors with different prognoses, we used real-time RT-PCR to evaluate the miRNA expression profiles of 24 triple-negative breast invasive ductal carcinoma, 20 luminal A breast invasive ductal carcinoma, and 13 normal breast parenchyma controls. We extracted total RNA from tissues fixed in formol and embedded in paraffin (FFPE). Results revealed the upregulation of miR-96-5p (9.35-fold; p = 0.000115), miR-182-5p (7.75-fold; p = 0.000033), miR-7-5p (6.71-fold; p = 0.015626), and miR-21-5p (6.10-fold; p = 0.000000) in tumors group. In addition, the expression of miR-125b-5p (4.49-fold; p = 0.000000) and miR-205-5p (4.36-fold; p = 0.006098) was downregulated. When the expression profiles of triple-negative and luminal A tumors were compared, there was enhanced expression of miR-17-5p (4.27-fold; p = 0.000664), miR-18a-5p (9.68-fold; p = 0.000545), and miR-20a-5 (4.07-fold; p = 0.001487) in the triple-negative tumors compared with luminal A. These data suggest that there is a similar regulation of certain miRNAs in triple-negative and luminal A tumors. However, it is possible that differences in the expression of miR-17-92 cluster will explain the phenotypic differences between these molecular tumor subtypes.

Clinical outcomes following nipple-areola-sparing mastectomy with immediate implant-based breast reconstruction: a 12-year experience with an analysis of patient and breast-related factors for complications.

Nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is increasingly offered to women for therapeutic and prophylactic indications. Although, clinical series have been described, there are few studies describing risk factors for complications. The objective of this study is to evaluate the incidence of complications in a series of consecutive patients submitted to NSM and differences between clinical risk factors, breast volume, and different incision types. In a cohort-designed study, 158 reconstructed patients (invasive/in situ cancer and high risk for cancer) were stratified into groups based on different types of incision used (hemi-periareolar, double-circle periareolar, and Wise-pattern). They were matched for age, body mass index, associated clinical diseases, smoking, and weight of specimen. Also included were patients treated with adjuvant chemotherapy and postoperative radiotherapy. Mean follow-up was 65.6 months. In 106 (67 %) patients, NSM was performed for breast cancer treatment and in 52 (32.9 %) for cancer prophylaxis. Thirty-nine (24.6 %) patients were submitted to hemi-periareolar technique, 67 (42.4 %) to double-circle periareolar incision, and 52 (33 %) to Wise-pattern incision. The reconstruction was performed with tissue expander and implant-expander. Local recurrence rate was 3.7 % and the incidence of distant metastases was 1.8 %. Obese patients and higher weight of specimen had a higher risk for complications. After adjusting risk factors (BMI, weight of specimen), the complications were higher for patients submitted to hemi-periareolar and Wise-pattern incisions. This follow-up survey demonstrates that NSM facilitates optimal breast reconstruction by preserving the majority of the breast skin. Selected patients can have safe outcomes and therefore this may be a feasible option for breast cancer management. Success depends on coordinated planning with the oncologic surgeon and careful preoperative and intraoperative management. Surgical risk factors include incision type, obesity, and weight of breast specimen.

Can breast nipple fluid collected with automated aspiration and preserved in based-liquid solution improve the cytological samples?

OBJECTIVE: Samples from breast nipples collected with the automated HALO™ Mamo Cito Test were studied in order to evaluate the cellularity for the diagnosis of breast cancer. STUDY DESIGN: One hundred and fifty-nine asymptomatic women were prospectively examined. Women younger than 18 years, pregnant or lactating women, and women with a history of breast cancer, with previous radio- or chemotherapy and with nipple piercing were excluded from the study. Nipple samples from both breasts were collected. RESULTS: In 107 (34.96%) of the 306 samples of nipple discharge analyzed by optical microscopy, adequate cellularity was observed after the HALO procedure. Cytological findings, previously categorized according to the National Health Service Breast Screening Program (NHSBSP), were grouped as unsatisfactory, benign, suspected for malignancy, and malignant. Of the cellular breast samples, 97.19% (104/107) were classified as benign, and 2.81% (3/107) were classified as suspicious for malignancy. In 199 cases there were samples without cells (65.03%). Most of the cells observed were easily recognized as well-preserved and adequately stained macrophages. None of the women reported discomfort with the nipple aspiration procedure. CONCLUSIONS: The results discussed here encouraged us to use samples collected automatically in routine procedures.

Venous thromboembolism incidence in postoperative breast cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) is an important cause of morbidity in cancer patients. Breast cancer patients undergoing surgical treatment are at an increased risk of VTE. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of VTE in patients who underwent surgery for the treatment of breast cancer and to identify the related risk factors. METHODS: A historical cohort of patients at the São Paulo State Cancer Institute (ICESP) underwent surgery for breast cancer. The inclusion criteria covered patients with invasive breast cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ who had breast surgery anytime from January 2016 to December 2018. RESULTS: Of the 1672 patients included in the study, 15 had a confirmed diagnosis of VTE (0.9%), and 3 of these had deep vein thrombosis (0.2%), and 12, had pulmonary thromboembolism (0.7%). Clinical and tumoral characteristics did not differ between the groups. The incidence of VTE was higher in patients who had undergone skin-sparing mastectomy or nipple-sparing mastectomy (p = 0.032). Immediate reconstruction, particularly with abdominal-based flaps (4.7%), increased VTE events (p = 0.033). Median surgical time was higher in patients with VTE episodes (p = 0.027), and total hospital length of stay increased in days (6 days vs. 2 days, p = 0.001). Neoadjuvant chemotherapy and postoperative prophylaxis with Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH) were associated with lower VTE rates (0.2% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.048 and 0.7% vs. 2.7%, p = 0.039; respectively) in these patients. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of VTE events in breast cancer patients who underwent surgery was 0.9%. Immediate reconstruction (especially with abdominal-based flaps), skin-sparing/nipple-sparing mastectomies, and longer surgeries were associated with increased risk. The LMWH postoperative prophylaxis reduced this risk.

Characteristics and prognosis of young breast cancer patients treated in a public comprehensive cancer centre in Brazil: A retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The incidence of breast cancer among women under 41 years old varies worldwide, with higher rates observed in developing countries. These young women often face later-stage diagnoses. In this study, we examine a cohort of young women who were treated for breast cancer in São Paulo, Brazil. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving women under 41 years old. Our objective was to describe patient and treatment characteristics, with the main outcomes being overall and disease-free survival. Our analysis explored the associations between age of menarche, history of breastfeeding, use of hormonal contraceptives, and age at diagnosis. RESULTS: Our study included 493 patients with a mean follow-up of 62.8 months. The mean age of the patients was 34.6 (SD=4.19). Of the patients, 68% presented with locally advanced disease, and 19.27% were metastatic at the time of diagnosis. We observed significant associations between age of menarche and age at diagnosis (p = 0.0096), as well as age at diagnosis and breastfeeding (p = 0.0232). Chemotherapy was administered to 92.91% of the patients as part of their treatment, while 27.2% were eligible for breast-conserving surgery. During the follow-up period, 153 patients died, with disease progression being the cause of death in 73.2% of cases. The median survival time for the entire cohort is still under review, while the metastatic patients at diagnosis had a median survival time of 28.64 months (95%CI 20.21-40.89). CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight significant associations between late-stage diagnosis and overall and disease-free survival in this patient age group. Given that the majority of patients present with locally advanced breast cancer, it is crucial to implement strategies that promote early-stage diagnosis and improve survival rates.

Pathological macroscopic evaluation of breast density versus mammographic breast density in breast cancer conserving surgery.

Correlation between imaging and anatomopathological breast density has been superficially explored and is heterogeneous in current medical literature. It is possible that mammographic and pathological findings are divergent. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between breast density classified by mammography and breast density of pathological macroscopic examination in specimens of breast cancer conservative surgeries. Post-hoc, exploratory analysis of a prospective randomized clinical trial of patients with breast cancer candidates for breast conservative surgery. Breast mammographic density (MD) was analyzed according to ACR BI-RADS® criteria, and pathologic macroscopic evaluation of breast density (PMBD) was estimated by visually calculating the ratio between stromal and fatty tissue. From 412 patients, MD was A in 291 (70,6%), B in 80 (19,4%) B, C in 35 (8,5%), and D in 6 (1,5%). Ninety-nine percent (201/203) of patients classified as A+B in MD were correspondently classified in PMBD. Conversely, only 18.7% (39/209) of patients with MD C+D were classified correspondently in PMBD (p < 0.001). Binary logistic regression showed age (OR 1.06, 1.01-1.12 95% CI, p 0.013) and nulliparity (OR 0.39, 0.17-0.96 95% CI, p 0.039) as predictors of A+B PMBD. Conclusion: Mammographic and pathologic macroscopic breast density showed no association in our study for breast C or D in breast image. The fatty breast was associated with older patients and the nulliparity decreases the chance of fatty breasts nearby 60%.

Validation of the Residual Cancer Burden Index as a prognostic tool in women with locally advanced breast cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

AIMS: To correlate the 'Residual Cancer Burden' (RCB) index with overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in women undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy at the Cancer Institute of the State of São Paulo. METHODS: We analysed the medical records of patients with breast cancer who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy and breast surgery, from 2011 to December 2017. Variables analysed were age, clinical and pathological staging, molecular subtype, number of recurrences or metastases, number of deaths, value and class of the RCB index. We used the Kaplan-Meier and the log-rank statistics to evaluate the possible association between RCB and OS and DFS. A regression model was used to determine the independent association of the RCB with the outcomes controlling for confounding factors. RESULTS: 347 patients were included in the analysis with a mean age of 49.39 years. Initial clinical staging was T3 in 57.9% of patients and 43.8% of patients had N1 axillary status. Survival analysis showed a statistically significant better prognosis for the RCB 0 (pCR) subgroup compared with RCB 1, 2 and 3 (log rank p=0.01). In a multivariate analysis, only the RCB classification showed a statistically significant correlation with DFS (RCB 1, HR 6.9, CI 1.9 to 25.4, p=0.004; RCB 2, HR 4.2, CI 1.6 to 10.8, p=0.03; and RCB 3, HR 7.6, CI 2.76 to 20.8, p=0.00). CONCLUSION: We demonstrated a positive and significant relationship between the RCB index and the risk of relapse and death.

Measurement of extracapsular extension in sentinel lymph node as a possible predictor of residual axillary disease in breast cancer.

BACKGROUND: The presence of Extracapsular Extension (ECE) in the Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) is still a doubt in the literature. Some studies suggest that the presence of ECE may be related to a greater number of positive axillary lymph nodes which could impact Disease Free Survival (DFS) and Overall Survival (OS). This study searches for the clinical significance of the ECE. METHODS: Retrospective cohort comparing the presence or absence of ECE in T1-2 invasive breast cancer with positive SLNB. All cases treated surgically at the Cancer Institute of the State of São Paulo (ICESP) between 2009 and 2013 were analyzed. All patients with axillary disease in SLNB underwent AD. OUTCOMES: Identify the association between the presence and length of ECE and additional axillary positive lymph nodes, OS and DFS between both groups. RESULTS: 128 patients with positive SLNB were included, and 65 had ECE. The mean metastasis size of 0.62 (SD = 0.59) mm at SLNB was related to the presence of ECE (p < 0.008). The presence of ECE was related to a higher mean of positive sentinel lymph nodes, 3.9 (± 4.8) vs. 2.0 (± 2.1), p = 0.001. The median length of follow-up was 115 months. The OS and DFS rates had no differences between the groups. CONCLUSION: The presence of ECE was associated with additional positive axillary lymph nodes in this study. Therefore, the OS and DFS were similar in both groups after 10 years of follow-up. It is necessary for additional studies to define the importance of AD when SLNB with ECE.

Locally advanced breast cancer: breast-conserving surgery and other factors linked to overall survival after neoadjuvant treatment.

Background: Recent data suggest that breast-conserving surgery (BCS) may positively impact overall survival (OS) in early breast cancer. However, the role of BCS in locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) following neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) remains uncertain. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study involving 530 LABC patients who underwent surgery after NAT between 2010 and 2015. Outcomes examined included OS, distant recurrence rates (DRR), and loco-regional recurrence rates (LRRs). Results: Among the 927 breast cancer patients who received NAT, 530 were eligible for our study. Of these, 24.6% underwent BCS, while 75.4% underwent mastectomy (MS). The median follow-up duration was 79 months. BCS patients exhibited a higher pathological complete response (PCR) rate compared to those who underwent MS (22.3% vs. 10%, p < 0.001). The 6-year OS rates for BCS and MS were 81.5% and 62%, respectively (p < 0.000). In multivariate OS analysis, MS was associated with worse outcomes (OR 1.678; 95% CI 1.069-2.635; p = 0.024), as was body mass index (BMI) (OR 1.031; 95% CI 1.006-1.058; p = 0.017), and stage IIIB or IIIC (OR 2.450; 95% CI 1.561-3.846; p < 0.000). Conversely, PCR (OR 0.42; 95% CI 0.220-0.801; p = 0.008) was associated with improved survival. DRR was significantly lower in BCS (15.4%) compared to MS (36.8%) (OR 0.298; 95% CI 0.177-0.504). LRRs were comparable between BCS (9.2%) and MS (9.5%) (OR 0.693; 95% CI 0.347-1.383). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that BCS is oncologically safe, even for patients with large lesions, and is associated with superior OS rates compared to MS. Additionally, lower BMI, lower pretreatment stage, and achieving PCR were associated with improved survival outcomes.

The circulating 70 kDa heat shock protein (HSPA1A) level is a potential biomarker for breast carcinoma and its progression.

The early diagnosis of breast cancer can improve treatment and prognosis. We sought to evaluate whether the serum concentration of the 70 kDa heat shock protein (HSPA1A) was elevated in Brazilian women with breast cancer, and if levels correlated with tumor characteristics. This was a cross-sectional, analytical, case-control exploratory study performed at The University of São Paulo School of Medicine. From September 2017 to December 2018, 68 women with breast cancer and 59 controls were recruited. The HSPA1A concentration in serum samples was determined by ELISA by individuals blinded to the clinical data. The mean ages in the study and control groups were 54.9 and 52.0 years, respectively. The median serum levels of HSPA1A were elevated in women with breast cancer (1037 pg/ml) compared with controls (300 pg/ml) (p < 0.001). Elevated HSPA1A levels were associated with advanced histological tumor grade (p < 0.001) and with the cell proliferation index (KI67) (p = 0.0418). The HSPA1A concentration was similar in women with different histological subtypes, nuclear grade, hormone receptor expression, HER2 status and the presence or absence of angiolymphatic invasion. Elevated serum HSPA1A in Brazilian women with advanced histological grade and proliferation index breast cancer supports the potential value of additional investigation on larger and more varied populations to verify the value of HSPA1A detection as a component of breast cancer diagnosis and progression.

Underestimation Rate in the Percutaneous Diagnosis of Radial Scar/Complex Sclerosing Lesion of the Breast: Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the underestimation rate in breast surgical biopsy after the diagnosis of radial scar/complex sclerosing lesion through percutaneous biopsy. DATA SOURCES: A systematic review was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) recommendations. The PubM: ed, SciELO, Cochrane, and Embase databases were consulted, with searches conducted through November 2020, using specific keywords (radial scar OR: complex sclerosing lesion, breast cancer, anatomopathological percutaneous biopsy AND/OR: surgical biopsy). DATA COLLECTION: Study selection was conducted by two researchers experienced in preparing systematic reviews. The eight selected articles were fully read, and a comparative analysis was performed. STUDY SELECTION: A total of 584 studies was extracted, 8 of which were selected. One of them included women who had undergone a percutaneous biopsy with a histological diagnosis of radial scar/complex sclerosing lesion and subsequently underwent surgical excision; the results were used to assess the underestimation rate of atypical and malignant lesions. DATA SYNTHESIS: The overall underestimation rate in the 8 studies ranged from 1.3 to 40% and the invasive lesion underestimation rate varied from 0 to 10.5%. CONCLUSION: The histopathological diagnosis of a radial scar/complex sclerosing lesion on the breast is not definitive, and it may underestimate atypical and malignant lesions, which require a different treatment, making surgical excision an important step in diagnostic evaluation.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o grau de discordância entre biópsia percutânea e cirúrgica da mama em pacientes com diagnóstico de cicatriz radiada/lesão esclerosante complexa (CR/LEC) por meio de uma revisão sistemática. FONTES DOS DADOS: Foi realizada uma revisão sistemática segundo as recomendações do Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA, na sigla em inglês). As bases de dados primárias consultadas foram PubMed, SciELO, Cochrane e Embase, com buscas conduzidas até novembro de 2020, utilizando palavras chaves específicas (cicatriz radiada OU lesão esclerosante complexa, câncer de mama, anatomopatológico de biópsia percutânea E/OU biópsia cirúrgica). SELEçãO DOS ESTUDOS: A busca dos artigos resultou em um total de 584 estudos, sendo 8 selecionados, os quais incluíam mulheres submetidas a biópsia com diagnóstico histológico de CR/LEC e posteriormente submetidas a exérese cirúrgica para avaliar como desfecho o grau de subestimação de lesões atípicas e malignas. COLETA DE DADOS: A seleção dos estudos foi conduzida por dois pesquisadores, com experiência na elaboração de revisão sistemática. Os oito artigos selecionados foram lidos na íntegra e submetidos a uma análise comparativa. SíNTESE DOS DADOS: Cicatrizes radiadas/lesões esclerosante complexas foram associadas com lesões atípicas e malignas após a exérese cirúrgica. O grau de subestimação geral foi calculado pela porcentagem de lesões atípicas e malignas no anatomopatológico após a exérese cirúrgica dentre o total de CR/LEC diagnosticadas, enquanto o grau de subestimação de lesões invasoras foi calculado considerando-se apenas os carcinomas invasivos. O grau de subestimação geral dos estudos selecionados variou de 1,3 a 40%, e o de lesões invasoras de 0 a 10,5%. CONCLUSãO: O diagnóstico histopatológico de CR/LEC na mama não é definitivo, podendo subestimar lesões atípicas e malignas, cujo tratamento é distinto, tornando a exérese cirúrgica etapa fundamental na investigação diagnóstica.

Outcome analysis of immediate and delayed conservative breast surgery reconstruction with mastopexy and reduction mammaplasty techniques.

BACKGROUND: Bilateral mammaplasty or mastopexy is frequently used for oncoplastic objectives. However, little information has been available regarding outcome following immediate and delayed reconstruction. METHOD: Patients were divided into Group I (immediate reconstruction) and Group II (delayed reconstruction). Retrospective review was performed to compare complications, length of hospital stay, revision surgeries, and satisfaction. The associations between the complications with potential risk factors (timing, age, body mass index, smoking, and comorbid medical conditions) were analyzed. RESULTS: There were a total of 144 patients with a mean follow-up of 47 months. Of the 106 patients in Group I, complications occurred in 24 (22.6%), skin necrosis was observed in 7.5%, fat necrosis in 5.6%, and 6.6% patients developed local recurrence. Mean period of hospitalization was 1.89 days. Of the 38 patients of the Group II, complications occurred in 12 (31.5%), skin necrosis was observed in 7 (18.4%), fat necrosis in 4 (10.5%), and 5.2% patients developed local recurrence. Mean period of hospitalization was 1.35 days. Increased length of hospital stay greater than 1 day (P < 0.001) and the number of revision surgeries (P = 0.043) were associated with the timing of the reconstruction. In univariate analysis, no difference between groups was found with respect to complication incidence (P = 0.275); however, after adjusting for other risk factors, the probability of complications tend to be higher for Group II (OR = 2.65; 95% confidence interval = 1.01-7.00; P = 0.049). CONCLUSIONS: On the basis of the results of our study, the probability of complications tends to be higher for delayed reconstructions, and it is demonstrated that obesity and smoking are risk factors for complications. Ultimately, these data may facilitate the provision of individualized risk information for shared medical decision-making.

Core needle biopsy in fibroepithelial tumors: predicting factors for phyllodes tumors.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and imaging predictive factors for the diagnosis of phyllodes tumors in patients with inconclusive results from core needle biopsy (fibroepithelial lesions). METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed data of patients who underwent surgical excision of breast lesions previously diagnosed as fibroepithelial lesions. Numeric variables were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk and t-tests, and categorical variables were analyzed using the chi-square and Fisher's exact tests. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to calculate odds ratios and detect predictive factors for the diagnosis of PT. RESULTS: A total of 89 biopsy samples were obtained from 77 patients, of which 43 were confirmed as fibroadenomas, 43 as phyllodes tumors, and 3 as other benign, non-fibroepithelial breast lesions. The mean tumor size was 3.61 cm (range, 0.8-10 cm) for phyllodes tumors and 2.4 cm (range, 0.8-7.9 cm) for fibroadenomas. The predictive factor for phyllodes tumor diagnosis was lesion size >3 cm (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Our data indicate that fibroepithelial lesions of the breast larger than 3 cm are more likely to be phyllodes tumors.

Accuracy of frozen section in intraoperative margin assessment for breast-conserving surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: It is well established that tumor-free margin is an important factor for reducing local recurrence and reoperation rates. This systematic review with meta-analysis of frozen section intraoperative margin assessment aims to evaluate the accuracy, and reoperation and survival rates, and to establish its importance in breast-conserving surgery. METHODS: A thorough review was conducted in all online publication-databases for the related literature up to March 2020. MeSH terms used: "Breast Cancer", "Segmental Mastectomy" and "Frozen Section". We included the studies that evaluated accuracy of frozen section, reoperation and survival rates. To ensure quality of the included articles, the QUADAS-2 tool (adapted) was employed. The assessment of publication bias by graphical and statistical methods was performed using the funnel plot and the Egger's test. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42019125682). RESULTS: Nineteen studies were deemed suitable, with a total of 6,769 cases. The reoperation rate on average was 5.9%. Sensitivity was 0.81, with a Confidence Interval of 0.79-0.83, p = 0.0000, I2 = 95.1%, and specificity was 0.97, with a Confidence Interval of 0.97-0.98, p = 0.0000, I-2 = 90.8%, for 17 studies and 5,615 cases. Accuracy was 0.98. Twelve studies described local recurrence and the highest cumulative recurrence rate in 3 years was 7.5%. The quality of the included studies based on the QUADAS-2 tool showed a low risk of bias. There is no publication bias (p = 0.32) and the funnel plot showed symmetry. CONCLUSION: Frozen section is a reliable procedure with high accuracy, sensitivity and specificity in intraoperative margin assessment of breast-conserving surgery. Therefore, this modality of margin assessment could be useful in reducing reoperation rates.