The use of complementary and alternative medicine and approaches to coping with stress in women with breast cancer: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to reveal the approaches to coping with stress of women with breast cancer and the factors predicting these approaches, to determine the prevalence and characteristics of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), and to examine the relationship between use of CAM and approaches to coping with stress. METHODS: A descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted among 328 women with breast cancer at a training and research hospital in Türkiye. Data were collected with the "Descriptive Information Form" and the "Stress Coping Styles Scale (SCSS)". RESULTS: Women's SCSS score was 47.26 ± 6.39 (effective) and 37.76 ± 6.33 (ineffective). The SCSS score were not significantly different between CAM users and non-CAM users (p > 0.05). The prevalence of CAM use was 36%, the most common types of CAM were herbal products (55.1%) and prayer (33.8%) and the reasons for using CAM were for relaxation (symptomatic) (43.2%). As a result of multivariate logistic regression analysis, level of income, working, number of living children, receiving chemotherapy, receiving surgery, having a family history of cancer, and the interest of their partner after the disease were associated with effective coping with stress (p < 0.05, adjusted R2 = 0.08, 0.05, and 0.33 respectively). Working, receiving chemotherapy, receiving surgery, stage of cancer, and having a history of cancer in a social environment were associated with ineffective coping with stress (p < 0.05, adjusted R2 = 0.14 and 0.11 respectively). CONCLUSIONS: One-third of women were using CAM and had a good level of approaches to coping with stress. Healthcare providers, especially gynecology-oncology nurses, should provide counseling on CAMs and develop strategies for coping with stress for women with breast cancer.

Abemaciclib as adjuvant treatment for high-risk early breast cancer / Abemaciclib en adyuvancia para el tratamiento del cáncer de mama precoz de alto riesgo

Objective: To adapt the GHEMA report of abemaciclib, an inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6. European Medicines Agency authorization (April 2022) includes, in combination with endocrine therapy, the adjuvant treatment of adult patients with hormone receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative, node-positive, early breast cancer at high risk of recurrence. Method: The efficacy and safety of abemaciclib were evaluated in a randomized, open-label, and multicenter phase III study. A total of 5637 patients diagnosed with early breast cancer with hormone receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative, node positive, and high risk of recurrence were included. High risk was defined as patients with 4 or more positive axillary lymph nodes, or 1–3 positive axillary lymph nodes and at least one of the following: tumor size ≥5 cm, histologic grade 3, or Ki-67≥20%. Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive adjuvant abemaciclib+endocrine therapy (n = 2808) or endocrine therapy alone (n = 2829) for 2 years, with endocrine therapy prescribed for at least 5 years. Results: With a median follow-up of 15.5 months, abemaciclib+endocrine therapy demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in invasive disease-free survival versus endocrine therapy alone [HR = 0.747 (95% CI 0.598–0.932), P = 0.0096]; achieving an absolute improvement of 3.5% invasive disease-free survival rate at 2-years. These results were maintained, with a median follow-up of 27.7 months: absolute improvement of 2.7% and 5.4% in invasive disease-free survival rate at 2 and 3 years, respectively. All-causality grade 3 or 4 adverse events were 45.9% for abemaciclib and 12.9% for endocrine therapy, and included neutropenia (19.6% vs. 0.8%), leukopenia (11.4% vs. 0.4%), and diarrhea (7.8% vs. 0.2%). Conclusions: The results of the pivotal trial are sufficient to consider abemaciclib as adjuvant treatment for...(AU)

Objetivo: Adaptar el informe GHEMA de abemaciclib, un inhibidor de quinasas dependientes de ciclinas 4 y 6, con autorización de la Agencia Europea del Medicamento en abril de 2022 para el tratamiento adyuvante de pacientes adultos con cáncer de mama precoz, receptor hormonal positivo, receptor del factor de crecimiento epidérmico negativo, con afectación ganglionar y riesgo elevado de recaída; en combinación con hormonoterapia. Método: La eficacia y seguridad de abemaciclib se evaluó en un estudio fase III multicéntrico, aleatorizado y abierto. Se incluyeron 5.637 pacientes diagnosticados de cáncer de mama precoz con ganglios positivos, receptor hormonal positivo, receptor del factor de crecimiento epidérmico negativo y alto riesgo de recaída. El criterio de alto riesgo se definió como la presencia de ≥ 4 ganglios positivos, o de 1–3 ganglios y al menos una de las siguientes características: tamaño del tumor ≥5 cm, grado histológico 3 o Ki-67 ≥ 20%. Los pacientes fueron aleatorizados (1:1) a recibir durante 2 años abemaciclib + hormonoterapia (n = 2.808) u hormonoterapia sola (n = 2.829). En ambos brazos el tratamiento con hormonoterapia se mantuvo mínimo 5 años. Resultados: Con una mediana de seguimiento de 15,5 meses, abemaciclib + hormonoterapia mostró beneficio significativo frente a la hormonoterapia sola [HR = 0,747 (IC95% 0,598-0,932), p = 0,0096], con una mejora absoluta del 3,5% en la tasa de supervivencia libre de enfermedad invasiva a 2 los años. Este beneficio se mantuvo con una mediana de seguimiento de 27,7 meses, logrando una mejora en la tasa de supervivencia libre de enfermedad invasiva del 2,7% y del 5,4% a los 2 y 3 años, respectivamente. La incidencia de efectos adversos grado 3–4 fue superior en el brazo de abemaciclib (45,9% vs. 12,9%); e incluía neutropenia (19,6% vs. 0,8%), leucopenia (11,4% vs. 0,4%) y diarrea (7,8% vs. 0,2%). Conclusiones: Los resultados del ensayo pivotal son suficientes para considerar abemaciclib como...(AU)

Abemaciclib en adyuvancia para el tratamiento del cáncer de mama precoz de alto riesgo / Abemaciclib as adjuvant treatment for high-risk early breast cancer

Objective: To adapt the GHEMA report of abemaciclib, an inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6. European Medicines Agency authorization (April 2022) includes, in combination with endocrine therapy, the adjuvant treatment of adult patients with hormone receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative, node-positive, early breast cancer at high risk of recurrence. Method: The efficacy and safety of abemaciclib were evaluated in a randomized, open-label, and multicenter phase III study. A total of 5637 patients diagnosed with early breast cancer with hormone receptor positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative, node positive, and high risk of recurrence were included. High risk was defined as patients with 4 or more positive axillary lymph nodes, or 1–3 positive axillary lymph nodes and at least one of the following: tumor size ≥5 cm, histologic grade 3, or Ki-67≥20%. Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive adjuvant abemaciclib+endocrine therapy (n = 2808) or endocrine therapy alone (n = 2829) for 2 years, with endocrine therapy prescribed for at least 5 years. Results: With a median follow-up of 15.5 months, abemaciclib+endocrine therapy demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in invasive disease-free survival versus endocrine therapy alone [HR = 0.747 (95% CI 0.598–0.932), P = 0.0096]; achieving an absolute improvement of 3.5% invasive disease-free survival rate at 2-years. These results were maintained, with a median follow-up of 27.7 months: absolute improvement of 2.7% and 5.4% in invasive disease-free survival rate at 2 and 3 years, respectively. All-causality grade 3 or 4 adverse events were 45.9% for abemaciclib and 12.9% for endocrine therapy, and included neutropenia (19.6% vs. 0.8%), leukopenia (11.4% vs. 0.4%), and diarrhea (7.8% vs. 0.2%). Conclusions: The results of the pivotal trial are sufficient to consider abemaciclib as adjuvant treatment for...(AU)

Objetivo: Adaptar el informe GHEMA de abemaciclib, un inhibidor de quinasas dependientes de ciclinas 4 y 6, con autorización de la Agencia Europea del Medicamento en abril de 2022 para el tratamiento adyuvante de pacientes adultos con cáncer de mama precoz, receptor hormonal positivo, receptor del factor de crecimiento epidérmico negativo, con afectación ganglionar y riesgo elevado de recaída; en combinación con hormonoterapia. Método: La eficacia y seguridad de abemaciclib se evaluó en un estudio fase III multicéntrico, aleatorizado y abierto. Se incluyeron 5.637 pacientes diagnosticados de cáncer de mama precoz con ganglios positivos, receptor hormonal positivo, receptor del factor de crecimiento epidérmico negativo y alto riesgo de recaída. El criterio de alto riesgo se definió como la presencia de ≥ 4 ganglios positivos, o de 1–3 ganglios y al menos una de las siguientes características: tamaño del tumor ≥5 cm, grado histológico 3 o Ki-67 ≥ 20%. Los pacientes fueron aleatorizados (1:1) a recibir durante 2 años abemaciclib + hormonoterapia (n = 2.808) u hormonoterapia sola (n = 2.829). En ambos brazos el tratamiento con hormonoterapia se mantuvo mínimo 5 años. Resultados: Con una mediana de seguimiento de 15,5 meses, abemaciclib + hormonoterapia mostró beneficio significativo frente a la hormonoterapia sola [HR = 0,747 (IC95% 0,598-0,932), p = 0,0096], con una mejora absoluta del 3,5% en la tasa de supervivencia libre de enfermedad invasiva a 2 los años. Este beneficio se mantuvo con una mediana de seguimiento de 27,7 meses, logrando una mejora en la tasa de supervivencia libre de enfermedad invasiva del 2,7% y del 5,4% a los 2 y 3 años, respectivamente. La incidencia de efectos adversos grado 3–4 fue superior en el brazo de abemaciclib (45,9% vs. 12,9%); e incluía neutropenia (19,6% vs. 0,8%), leucopenia (11,4% vs. 0,4%) y diarrea (7,8% vs. 0,2%). Conclusiones: Los resultados del ensayo pivotal son suficientes para considerar abemaciclib como...(AU)

Detección de la infiltración de la cadena mamaria interna en pacientes con cáncer de mama mediante PET/RM con 18F-FDG y sus implicaciones terapéuticas / Detection of internal mammary chain infiltration in breast cancer patients by [18F]FDG PET/MRI: Therapy implications

Objetivo: Evaluar la tasa de detección y la implicación terapéutica de la infiltración de la cadena mamaria interna (ICMI) mediante tomografía por emisión de positrones (PET) y resonancia magnética (RM) con 18F-fluorodesoxiglucosa (18F-PET/RM) en la estadificación de pacientes con cáncer de mama. Método: Estudio prospectivo, 41 mujeres con cáncer de mama (estadio ≥ IIB) estadificadas mediante 18F-FDG-PET/RM. Estudio en dos fases: imágenes mamarias (decúbito prono), cuerpo completo (supino). Estadificación TNM por consenso entre especialista en Medicina Nuclear y Radiología. Estudio vaso aferente (VA) a cadena mamaria interna (CMI) por RM mamaria. Correlación ICMI con edad, VA-CMI, estadificación T, cuadrante, infiltración axilar y a distancia. Revaloración terapéutica en comité multidisciplinar. Resultados: Tasa de detección de ICMN de 34% (14/41), siendo 8/14 < 55 años. Todas las 14 pacientes con ICMI muestran VA-CMI, en seis de ellas (43,9%) sin VA-axilar. De 27/41 sin ICMI, en 13 (48,1%) solo VA-axilar, en los 14 restantes (51,9%) VA-axilar y VA-CMI. Un total de 57% (8/14) son multicéntricos y 42% (6/14) focales, en cuadrantes internos en 4/6 (66,7%). En 1/14 (7,1%) solo ICMI, en 9/14 (64,3%) axilar y CMI y en 4/14 (28,6%) lesiones a distancia. Decisión del comité: sin tratamiento adicional en 27/41 (65,8%), radioterapia torácica en 10/41 (24,4%) y terapia sistémica en 4/41 (9,7%). Conclusión: La tasa de detección de la ICMI en la estadificación del cáncer de mama mediante 18F-FDG PET/RM es de 34%. Son factores asociados la edad, los tumores multicéntricos, los de cuadrantes internos, la existencia de VA-CMI, la estadificación NM. La evidencia de ICMI permite la individualización de la terapia, indicando la radioterapia torácica en 24,4%.(AU)

Objective: To evaluate the detection rate and therapeutic implication of the infiltration of the internal mammary chain (IMCI) by [18F]FDG PET/MRI for staging of patients with breast cancer. Methods: Prospective study including 41 women with breast cancer (stage ≥IIB) staged by [18F]FDG PET/MR. Two-phase exam: breast imaging (prone), whole-body (supine). TNM stage assessed by peer consensus with Nuclear Medicine and Radiology specialists. Study of the afferent vessel (AV) to IMC by breast MRI. IMCI was correlated with age, AV-IMC, T stage, breast quadrants, axillary and distant infiltration. Therapeutic re-evaluation by a multidisciplinary committee. Results: IMCI detection rate of 34% (14/41), with 8/14 patients under 55 years of age. All 14 patients with IMCI showed AV-IMC, 6 of them (43.9%) without VA-axillary. Of 27/41 patients without IMCI, in 13 (48.1%) only AV-axillary was found, in the remaining 14 (51.9%), AV-axillary and AV-IMC was found. In 57% (8/14) tumours were multicentric and 42% (6/14) focal, in inner quadrants in 4/6 (66.7%). In 1/14 patient (7.1%) only IMCI was found, in 9/14 (64.3%) axillary and IMC, in 4/14 patients (28.6%) distant lesions were detected. Committee re-evaluation: no further treatment in 27/41 patients (65.8%), thoracic radiotherapy in 10/41 patients (24.4%), systemic therapy in 4/41 patients (9.7%). Conclusion: Our detection rate of IMCI in breast cancer staging by [18F]FDG PET/MR was 34%. Related factors were age, multicentric tumours, inner quadrants, detection of AV-IMC, NM staging.The evidence of IMCI allowed tailored therapy, with thoracic radiotherapy implementation in 24.4% of patients.(AU)

Concordancia entre SPECT portátil y la gammagrafía convencional para detección de ganglio centinela en cáncer de mama / Concordance between freehand SPECT and conventional scintigraphy for sentinel lymph node detection in breast cancer

Introducción: La SPECT portátil puede ser una técnica de imagen útil para la planificación preoperatoria de la biopsia selectiva del ganglio centinela (BSGC) ya que permite la localización del ganglio centinela (GC) mediante imágenes tomográficas en 3D y en tiempo real y determina su profundidad, después de unos minutos de exploración. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la correlación entre el número de GC detectados entre las imágenes de la SPECT portátil y la linfogammagrafía (LG). Materiales y métodos: Cien pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer de mama infiltrante y sin evidencia clínica de afectación ganglionar, se sometieron prospectivamente a una BSGC. El estudio preoperatorio incluyó imágenes de SPECT portátil a los 15 min tras la inyección y de LG a los 25 y 60-90 min (precoz y tardía). Se analizó el acuerdo observado y se realizó un estudio de concordancia entre el número de GC detectados con SPECT portátil y LG. Resultados: El acuerdo observado en la detección de GC entre SPECT portátil y LG precoz fue del 72%; entre SPECT portátil y LG tardía del 85%, y entre la LG precoz y la tardía de un 87%. En el estudio de concordancia se registró una concordancia moderada entre la SPECT portátil y la LG precoz (coeficiente kappa: 0,42); una concordancia moderada-alta entre la SPECT portátil y la LG tardía (coeficiente kappa: 0,60), y una concordancia de moderada-alta entre la LG precoz y la tardía (coeficiente kappa: 0,70), sin diferencias significativas entre ellos (valor p=0,16). Conclusión: La SPECT portátil presentó una concordancia moderada-alta con los estudios de imagen convencional y podría ser una alternativa válida para el estudio prequirúrgico de la BSGC en el cáncer de mama.(AU)

Introduction: Freehand SPECT can be a useful imaging technique for preoperative planning of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) as it allows localization of the sentinel node by 3D and real-time tomographic imaging and determines its depth after a few minutes of scanning. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between the number of detected SNs between freehand SPECT images and lymphoscintigraphy (LS). Materials and methods: One hundred patients with a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer and no clinical evidence of lymph node involvement prospectively underwent SLNB. The preoperative study included freehand SPECT imaging at 15min after injection and LS imaging at 25 and 60–90min after injection (early and late). The observed agreement was analyzed and a concordance study was performed between the number of SNs detected with freehand SPECT and LS. Results: The observed agreement in the detection of SNs between freehand SPECT and early LS was 72%; between freehand SPECT and late LS was 85%; and between early and late LS was 87%. In the concordance study, there was moderate concordance between freehand SPECT and early LS (kappa coefficient: 0.42); moderate-high concordance between freehand SPECT and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.60); and moderate-high concordance between early and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.70), with no significant differences between them (p-value=0.16). Conclusion: Freehand SPECT showed a moderate-high concordance with conventional imaging studies and could be a valid alternative for the presurgical study of SLNB in breast cancer.(AU)

Dolor crónico tras la cirugía de mama: incidencia, factores de riesgo e impacto en la calidad de vida / Chronic pain after breast surgery: Incidence, risk factors and impact on quality of life

Introducción y objetivos: El cáncer de mama es la neoplasia más frecuentemente diagnosticada y el dolor crónico postoperatorio (DCPO) es un problema relacionado con la terapia crecientemente reconocido. Evaluamos la incidencia del DCPO, sus características, factores asociados e impacto en la calidad de vida (CdV) del paciente.Materiales y métodosSe realizó un estudio prospectivo observacional de 6meses en pacientes tratados mediante cirugía de mama en un hospital universitario terciario. Los datos se recopilaron utilizando diversos cuestionarios: Pain Catastrophizing Scale, Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form, Douleur Neuropathique 4, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire y Breast Cancer Module.ResultadosUn total de 112 pacientes completaron el estudio, de los cuales aproximadamente un tercio (34,8%) desarrollaron DCPO y casi todos ellos dolor neuropático potencial. El DCPO interfirió con la vida diaria de los pacientes y redujo su CdV. La diabetes (p=0,028), la catastrofización (p=0,042) y la gravedad del dolor posoperatorio agudo (p<0,001) se asociaron a DCPO.ConclusionesEste estudio amplía nuestra comprensión sobre el DCPO y muestra el impacto de este síndrome. Los profesionales sanitarios deben ser conscientes del DCPO, y tomar medidas para prevenirlo y tratarlo, proporcionando a los pacientes la información suficiente. (AU)

Introduction and objectives: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed malignancy, and chronic pain after breast surgery (CPBS) is an increasingly recognized therapy-related problem. We evaluated CPBS incidence, characteristics, associated factors, and impact on patient quality of life (QoL).Materials and methodsSix-month observational prospective study in patients undergoing breast surgery in a tertiary university hospital. Data were collected using several questionnaires: Pain Catastrophizing Scale, Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form, Douleur Neuropathique 4 Questionnaire, and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire and its Breast Cancer Module.ResultsA total of 112 patients completed the study. Approximately, one third (34.8%) developed CPBS, almost all with potentially neuropathic pain. CPBS interfered with patients’ daily life and reduced their QoL. Diabetes (p=.028), catastrophizing (p=.042), and acute postoperative pain severity (p<.001) were associated with CPBS.ConclusionsThis study broadens our understanding of CPBS and shows the impact of this syndrome. Healthcare workers need to be aware of CPBS and take steps to prevent and treat it, and provide patients with adequate information. (AU)

Sexual quality of life and body image of breast cancer patients: uncovering the meaning behind the symptoms / Calidad de vida sexual e imagen corporal de pacientes con cáncer de mama: descubriendo el significado detrás de los síntomas

Abstract: Introduction: Breast cancer symptoms and the side effects of treatment can significantly affect different domains of women’s functioning. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine the quality of life in women with breast cancer. Method: Our sample consisted of 240 women aged 30-68 (M=52, SD=8.68). Approximately 50% had undergone a mastectomy, while 40% had breast reconstruction. A structured questionnaire consisted of social-demographical data, SQOL-F, EORTC QLQ-C30 & EORTC QLQ-BR23. Results: Results suggest that our BC patients had lower quality of life and more financial difficulties than in most other studies, implying some cultural or health system differences. Not having a mastectomy was associated with better sexual quality of life, global health, and physical functioning. In contrast, women who underwent mastectomy reported impaired body image and sexual functioning, with more prominent breast symptoms. Reconstruction was related to the lower quality of life and no improvement in body image. Conclusions: Sexual quality of life was mainly related to global health status, emotional functioning, treatment side effects and body image. Emotional functioning and side effects were significant predictors of sexual quality of life, while impaired sexual functioning was associated with distorted body image. These findings can serve as guidance for forming interventions aimed at enhancing the quality of life. (AU)

Resumen:Introducción: Los síntomas del cáncer de mama y los efectos secundarios del tratamiento pueden afectar significativamente a diferentes áreas funcionales de las mujeres. Objetivo: examinar la calidad de vida de mujeres con cáncer de mama. Método: la muestra estuvo compuesta por 240 mujeres de entre 30 y 68 años (M=52; DT=8,68). Aproximadamente el 50% se había sometido a una mastectomía, mientras que al 40% se le había realizado una reconstrucción mamaria. Un cuestionario estructurado constaba de datos sociodemográficos, SQOL-F, EORTC QLQ-C30 y EORTC QLQ-BR23. Resultados: Los resultados sugieren que nuestros pacientes con BC tenían una menor calidad de vida y más dificultades financieras que en la mayoría de los otros estudios, lo que implica algunas diferencias culturales o del sistema de salud. No someterse a una mastectomía se asoció con una mejor calidad de vida sexual, salud global y funcionamiento físico. Por el contrario, las mujeres que se sometieron a mastectomía informaron problemas de imagen corporal y funcionamiento sexual, con síntomas mamarios más prominentes. La reconstrucción se relacionó con una menor calidad de vida y ninguna mejora en la imagen corporal. Conclusiones: La calidad de vida sexual se relacionó principalmente con el estado de salud global, el funcionamiento emocional, los efectos secundarios del tratamiento y la imagen corporal. El funcionamiento emocional y los efectos secundarios fueron predictores importantes de la calidad de vida sexual, mientras que el funcionamiento sexual deteriorado se asoció con una imagen corporal distorsionada. Estos hallazgos pueden servir como guía para formular intervenciones destinadas a mejorar la calidad de vida. (AU)

Alteraciones cognitivas asociadas al tratamiento de hormonoterapia en pacientes con cáncer de mama: una revisión sistemática / Cognitive alterations associated with hormone therapy in patients with breast cancer: A systematic review

Objetivo: determinar las alteraciones cognitivas asociadas al tratamiento de hormonoterapia en pacientes con cáncer de mama. Método: el presente trabajo consiste en una revisión sistemática de estudios experimentales internacionales sobre los efectos de la hormonoterapia en las funciones cognitivas en mujeres con cáncer de mama, siguiendo la declaración PRISMA. Para su selección se han seguido unos criterios metodológicos estrictos, incluyendo únicamente estudios longitudinales con evaluaciones de línea base y/o grupo control. Resultados: a pesar de las discrepancias descritas, los resultados muestran deterioro significativo en memoria verbal, funciones ejecutivas, aprendizaje verbal y velocidad de procesamiento. Conclusiones: de cara a futuras investigaciones se recomienda utilizar unos criterios metodológicos más estrictos y realizar seguimientos a largo plazo, teniendo en cuenta que la media de administración de estos tratamientos oscila entre 5 y 10 años.(AU)

Objective: to determine the cognitive alterations associated with hormone therapy in breast cancer patients. Methods: the present work consists of a systematic review of international experimental studies on the effects of hormone therapy on cognitive functions in women with breast cancer, following the PRISMA statement. Strict methodological criteria were followed for its selection, including only longitudinal studies with baseline and/or control group evaluations. Results: despite the discrepancies described, the results show significant impairment in verbal memory, executive functions, verbal learning, and processing speed. Conclusions: for future research it is recommended to use stricter methodological criteria and to carry out long-term follow-ups, considering that the average time of administration of these treatments’ ranges between 5 and 10 year.(AU)

Diseño y validación de un manual psicoeducativo sobre la colocación de catéter puerto en mujeres con cáncer de mama / Design and validation of a psychoeducational manual on port catheter placement in women with breast cancer

Introducción: Los abordajes educativos son intervenciones recomendadas para atender las necesidades informativas y emocionales de los pacientes con cáncer de mama. Entre ellos se encuentran los materiales psicoeducativos, que idealmente deben de estar desarrollados con base en la evidencia, para favorecer la alfabetización en salud; sin embargo, esto es poco común. Objetivo: Diseñar y validar el contenido de un manual psicoeducativo sobre la colocación del catéter puerto en mujeres con cáncer de mama, así como analizar su nivel de legibilidad. Método: se llevó a cabo una investigación prospectiva y transversal-descriptiva, a través de un diseño de tipo no experimental. Para la evaluación del manual, se contó con la participación de 9 jueces expertos en psicooncología, terapia intravenosa y medicina. Se analizó la validez de contenido con el índice de Osterlind y la dificultad de lectura con el índice INFLESZ. Resultados: El manual obtuvo una excelente evaluación de su contenido con un índice de Osterlind de 0,88 y en el análisis de dificultad de lectura obtuvo una puntuación de 67,3, evidencia de un material muy fácil de leer. Conclusiones: Los hallazgos muestran que el manual desarrollado es de calidad, de fácil acceso y comprensión para los pacientes que se someterán a la colocación de un catéter puerto. Asimismo, se ofrece evidencia de la importancia de construir materiales educativos basados en la investigación y en indicadores estadísticos.(AU)

Introduction: Educational approaches are recommended interventions to address the informational and emotional needs of patients with breast cancer. Among them are psychoeducational materials, which ideally should be evidence-based developed, to promote health literacy; however, this is rare. Objective: Design and validate the content of a psychoeducational manual on central venous catheters in women with breast cancer, as well as analyze its level of readability. Method: a prospective and transversal-descriptive research was carried out, through a non-experimental design. To evaluate the manual, 9 expert judges in psycho-oncology, intravenous therapy and medicine participated. Content validity was analyzed with the Osterlind index and reading difficulty with the INFLESZ index. Results: The manual obtained an excellent evaluation of its content with an Osterlind index of 0.88 and in the analysis of reading difficulty it obtained a score of 67.3, evidence of very easy-to-read material. Conclusions: The findings show that the developed manual is of quality, easy to access and understand for patients who will undergo central venous catheters. Likewise, evidence is offered of the importance of building educational materials based on research and statistical indicators.(AU)

Autoeficacia laboral percibida, y características del retorno al trabajo en mujeres supervivientes de cáncer de mama en Colombia / Perceived work self-efficacy, and characteristics of return to work in women survivors of breast cancer at two reference centers in Colombia

Objetivo: La reincorporación laboral y permanencia en el mismo empleo de mujeres super-vivientes al cáncer de mama cobran gran importancia a medida que las tasas de incidencia y la supervivencia aumentan, siendo la autoeficacia un elemento modificable de especial interés en este proceso. El objetivo de este estudio es analizar el nivel de autoeficacia en mujeres supervivientes de cáncer de mama, según las características sociodemográficas, laborales y de tratamiento y su relación con la reincorporación laboral.Métodos: Estudio transversal, basado en una encuesta a pacientes de cáncer de mama de dos centros oncológicos sobre sus características demográficas, laborales, el proceso de retorno al trabajo, la permanencia en el mismo empleo y el nivel de autoeficacia laboral. Se evaluaron las diferencias en el nivel de autoeficacia con respecto a las características mediante análisis bivariado y pruebas estadísticas de contraste de hipótesis. Un valor de p<0.05 se consideró estadísticamente significativo.Resultados: Se incluyeron 124 mujeres, de las cuales 87,9% habían retornado al trabajo, la mayoría (56,4%) entre uno y seis meses después del tratamiento, y el 67,7% permanecían en el mismo empleo. Los niveles superiores de autoeficacia laboral se relacionaron con una mayor probabilidad de retorno al trabajo y permanencia en el mismo, y menor tiempo de reincorporación, siendo estas diferencias estadísticamente significativas.Conclusión: La autoeficacia laboral y el apoyo organizacional son recursos que los servi-cios de salud laboral y prevención de riesgos deben considerar y fortalecer para ayudar a un retorno exitoso y sostenido al trabajo en supervivientes de cáncer de mama.(AU)

Objective: Return to work and permanence in employment of women who survive breast cancer are topics that become important as incidence and survival rates increase. Self-ef-ficacy as a modifiable element is of special interest in this process. The objective of this study is to measure the level of self-efficacy in female breast cancer survivors, according to sociodemographic, work and treatment characteristics and their relationship with return to work.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, based on a survey of breast cancer patients about their demographic and work characteristics, the return to work process, permanence in the same job and the level of work self-efficacy. Differences in the level of self-efficacy with respect to characteristics were evaluated using bivariate analyses and hypothesis sta-tistical testing. A value of p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results: One hundred and twenty-four women were included, 87.9% had returned to work, the majority (56.4%) between one and six months after treatment, 67.7% remained in the same job. Higher levels of work self-efficacy were related to a higher probability of returning to work and staying there, and a shorter time to return to work; these differences were sta-tistically significant. Conclusion: Occupational health and risk prevention services must consider and strength-en work self-efficacy and organizational support in breast cancer survivors to achieve a successful return to work.(AU)

EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS IN YOUNG ADULTS AGED 19 TO 24 YEARS WITH BREAST CANCER: AN EXPLORATORY REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE BETWEEN 2015 AND 2020 / FUNCIONES EJECUTIVAS EN ADULTOS JÓVENES DE 19 A 24 AÑOS CON CÁNCER DE MAMA: REVISIÓN EXPLORATORIA DE LITERATURA ENTRE 2015 Y 2020

With the growth and aging of the population, along with economic growth and changes in lifestyles associated with increased quality of life, the main burden of disease shifted from infectious diseases to noncommunicable and complex diseases. However, it is cancer that has increased its incidence in the world population, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where 70% of cancer deaths occur.  The research is articulated to sustainable development goal three, in particular on the effect of cancer on cognitive functioning, because cancer pain impairs cognitive functioning. A simple review for executive functions and breast cancer in PROSPERO indicated an absence of reviews on this topic. Reason why, our aim is to describe executive functions and treatment effect by chemotherapy/radiotherapy in young adult breast cancer patients between 2015 and 2020 in the scientific literature. Materials and methods: exploratory literature review according to PRISMA protocol for exploratory reviews. Articles published in Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, scielo, google academic, in Spanish, English, French. With the keywords: ("Executive Function") AND ("Neoplasms") OR "breast cancer" OR "Drug Therapy," AND ("Young Adult"), searches were performed until February 4, 2020. Results: 16 articles included in the review. Clinical and methodological heterogeneity was found on patients' executive functions and treatment. However, we did find executive function impairment among patients assessed by both treatment and cancer. Conclusions: A systematic review on the subject and meta-analysis are suggested to identify the effect size, accompanied by the statistical evidence identified in the studies. Colombia could investigate this topic because there is no Colombian research.

Con el crecimiento y envejecimiento de la población, junto al crecimiento económico y los cambios en los estilos de vida asociados al incremento en la calidad de vida, la principal carga de morbilidad pasó de las enfermedades infecciosas a las no transmisibles y complejas. Sin embargo, es el cáncer incrementó su incidencia en la población mundial, especialmente en países de ingresos bajos y medios, dónde el 70% de las muertes por cáncer se presentan.  La investigación se articula al objetivo de desarrollo sostenible tres, en particular sobre el efecto del cáncer sobre el funcionamiento cognitivo, debido a que el dolor por cáncer deteriora el funcionamiento cognitivo. Una revisión sencilla por funciones ejecutivas y cáncer de mama en PROSPERO indicó una ausencia de revisiones en este tema. Razón por la cual, nuestro objetivo es describir las funciones ejecutivas y el efecto del tratamiento por quimioterapia/radioterapia en pacientes con cáncer de mama en adultos jóvenes entre 2015 y 2020 en la literatura científica. Materiales y métodos: Revisión exploratoria de literatura según protocolo PRISMA para revisiones exploratorias. Artículos publicados en Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, scielo, google académico, en idioma español, inglés, francés. Con las palabras clave: ("Executive Function") AND ("Neoplasms") OR "breast cancer" OR "Drug Therapy," AND ("Young Adult"), las búsquedas se realizaron hasta el 4 de febrero de 2020. Resultados: 16 artículos incluidos en la revisión. Se encontró heterogeneidad clínica y metodológica sobre las funciones ejecutivas de los pacientes y el tratamiento. Sin embargo, sí se encontró afectación de funciones ejecutivas entre los pacientes evaluados tanto por el tratamiento cómo por el cáncer. Conclusiones: Se sugiere una revisión sistemática sobre el tema y meta-análisis para identificar el tamaño del efecto, acompañado de la evidencia estadística identificada en los estudios. Colombia podría investigar sobre esta temática debido a que no hay investigaciones colombianas.

Com o crescimento e o envelhecimento da população, juntamente com o desenvolvimento económico e as mudanças nos estilos de vida associadas ao aumento da qualidade de vida, o principal fardo da doença mudou de doenças infecciosas para doenças não transmissíveis e complexas. No entanto, é o câncer que aumentou a sua incidência na população mundial, especialmente nos países de baixa e média renda, onde 70% das mortes por câncer ocorrem. A pesquisa está articulada com o Objectivo de Desenvolvimento Sustentável 3, em particular sobre o efeito do câncer sobre o funcionamento cognitivo, porque a dor do cancro prejudica a função cognitiva. Uma simples revisão para funções executivas e câncer de mama em PROSPERO indicou uma ausência de comentários sobre este tópico. A razão pela qual, nosso objetivo é descrever as funções executivas e o efeito do tratamento por quimioterapia/radioterapia em pacientes jovens adultos com câncer de mama entre 2015 e 2020 na literatura científica. Materiais e métodos: revisão da literatura exploratória de acordo com o protocolo PRISMA para revisões exploratórias. Artigos publicados em Scopus, PubMed, ScienceDirect, scielo, google academic, em espanhol, inglês, francês. Com as palavras-chave: ("Função Executiva") E ("Neoplasmas") OU "câncer de mama" OU" Terapia de drogas," E ("Jovem Adulto"), as pesquisas foram realizadas até 4 de fevereiro de 2020. Resultados: 16 artigos incluídos na revisão. Foi encontrada heterogeneidade clínica e metodológica nas funções executivas e no tratamento dos pacientes. No entanto, descobrimos que a função executiva foi prejudicada entre os pacientes avaliados tanto pelo tratamento como pelo câncer. Conclusões: Sugere-se uma revisão sistemática do assunto e meta-análise para identificar o tamanho do efeito, acompanhada das provas estatísticas identificadas nos estudos. A Colômbia poderia investigar este assunto porque não há pesquisa colombiana.

Difficulties of gender affirming treatment in trans women with BRCA1+ mutation: A case report.

Gender affirming treatment in transgender women is based on a combination of antiandrogens and estrogens, with the latter maintained over the long term. When prescribing these treatments, we must consider the possibility of developing estrogen-dependent breast cancer. In transgender women, a breast cancer incidence of 4.1 per 100,000 has been estimated, which would increase the risk by 46% in relation to cisgender men but decrease it by 70% in relation to cisgender women. It is known that certain gene mutations such as BRCA1 imply an increased risk of breast cancer, but at present the risk in transgender women with BRCA1 treated with estrogens is not well established. We present the case of a transgender woman with a family history of breast cancer and BRCA1 mutation and the therapeutic decisions made in a multidisciplinary team. Following this case, we review and discuss the published literature.

Approach to the care process by nurse case managers in a breast unit.

OBJECTIVE: Breast units led by nurse case managers are being implemented to provide comprehensive care in the detection and treatment of breast cancer. However, their implementation is heterogeneous and the results of the care process with this professional have not been studied. The aim of the study is to describe the management in time and the approach of the process by a nurse case manager in the breast unit of women with suspected breast cancer pathology, derived from the breast cancer screening program. METHODS: Descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study carried out in 2021. Women treated in a breast unit managed by a nurse case manager in a hospital in southern Spain were included. Sociodemographic, clinical and care process characteristics were analysed RESULTS: A total of 118 women of Spanish nationality (92%) participated, with a mean age of 59 years. The diagnosis of malignancy was made in 74.6% of them. Seventy-nine percent of the women had their first visit within 3 days. The mean time to diagnosis was 3.98 days (SD: ±3.93), 4.2 weeks (SD: ±1.84) to initiate treatment and a total in-hospital time of 33 days (SD: ±13.45). CONCLUSIONS: The management of nurse case managers in breast units contributes to improving or speeding up times, in accordance with international guidelines, helping this approach in the continuity of the care process for women referred after screening for breast cancer detection.

Asociación entre la historia reproductiva, el subtipo de cáncer de mama y la supervivencia de mujeres premenopáusicas / Association between reproductive history, breast cancer subtype, and survival in premenopausal women

Antecedentes y objetivo: La historia reproductiva influye en el riesgo de cáncer de mama. Hemos analizado su asociación con el subtipo tumoral y la supervivencia en mujeres premenopáusicas. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio observacional, retrospectivo, de mujeres premenopáusicas con carcinoma de mama, estadios I-III, en los últimos 20 años. Revisión de la historia reproductiva, de los datos clínicos y de los tratamientos en las historias de salud. Resultados: En 661 mujeres premenopáusicas (32,40% de 1.377 totales), la mediana de edad fue de 47 años (19-53), de la menarquia 12 (7-17), del primer parto 28 (16-41) y de número de partos 2 (0-9). Fueron nulíparas 111 (18,20%). Emplearon lactancia natural 359 (58,80%) con mediana de duración de 6 meses. Consumieron anovulatorios 271 (44,40%), con mediana de 36 meses. Se halló asociación entre menarquia <10 años y menos riesgo de subtipo luminal (OR: 0,52; IC 95%: 0,28-0,94; p=0,03), entre menarquia >11 años y menos riesgo de subtipo HER2 (OR: 0,50; IC 95%: 0,26-0,97; p=0,04) y entre primer parto >30 años y menos riesgo de subtipo triple negativo (OR: 0,40; IC 95%: 0,17-0,93; p=0,03). La probabilidad de supervivencia global y libre de enfermedad a 20 años fue de 0,80 (IC 95%: 0,71-0,90) y 0,72 (IC 95%: 0,64-0,79), respectivamente. Las pacientes con uno o más de un parto presentaron mejor supervivencia global que las nulíparas (HR: 0,51; IC 95%: 0,27-0,96, p=0,04). Conclusiones: Los hallazgos sugieren que existe asociación entre edad de la menarquia y del primer parto y subtipo de cáncer de mama. La nuliparidad está asociada con peor supervivencia.(AU)

Background and objective: Reproductive history influences breast cancer risk. We analysed its association with tumour subtype and survival in premenopausal women. Patients and methods: Retrospective, observational study of premenopausal women with stage I-III breast carcinoma in the last 20 years. Review of reproductive history, clinical data, and treatments in health records.Results: In 661 premenopausal women (32.40% of 1377 total cases), median age was 47 years (19-53), menarche 12 (7-17), first delivery 28 (16-41) and number of deliveries 2 (0-9). One hundred and eleven (18.20%) were nulliparous. Three hundred and fifty-nine (58.80%) used natural lactation, with a median duration of 6 months. Anovulatory drugs were used by 271 (44.40%), with a median duration of 36 months. Associations were found between menarche <10 years and lower risk of luminal subtype (OR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.28-0.94; P=.03), between menarche >11 years and lower risk of HER2 subtype (OR: 0.50, 95% CI: 0.26-0.97; P=.04) and between first birth >30 years and lower risk of triple negative subtype (OR: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.17-0.93; P=.03). The 20-year overall and disease-free survival probabilities were 0.80 (95% CI: 0.71–0.90) and 0.72 (95% CI: 0.64-0.79) respectively. Patients with ≥1 delivery had better overall survival than nulliparous patients (HR: 0.51, 95% CI: 0.27-0.96, P=.04). Conclusions: The findings suggest an association between age at menarche and age at first delivery and breast cancer subtype. Nulliparity is associated with worse survival.(AU)

Intra and peritumoral PET radiomics analysis to predict the pathological response in breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to evaluate the contribution of 18Fluorine-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (18F-FDG PET) radiomic data obtained from both the tumoral and peritumoral area in predicting pathological complete response (pCR) in patients with locally advanced breast cancer receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). METHODS: Female patients with a diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma who received NAC were evaluated retrospectively. The volume of interest (VOI) of the primary tumor (VOI-T) was manually segmented, then a voxel-thick VOI was added around VOI-T to define the peritumoral area (VOI-PT). Morphological, intensity-based, histogram and texture parameters were obtained from VOIs. The patients were divided into two groups as pCR and non-complete pathological response (npCR). A "radiomic model" was created with only radiomic features, and a "patho-radiomic model" was created using radiomic features and immunohistochemical data. RESULTS: Of the 66 patients included in the study, 21 were in the pCR group. The only statistically significant feature from the primary tumor among patients with pCR and npCR was Morphological_Compacity-T (AUC: 0.666). Between response groups, a significant difference was detected in 2 morphological, 1 intensity, 4 texture features from VOI-PT; no correlation was found between Morphological_Compacity-PT and NGTDM_contrast-PT. The obtained radiomic model's sensitivity and accuracy values were calculated as 61.9% and 75.8%, respectively (AUC: 0.786). When HER2 status was added, sensitivity and accuracy values of the patho-radiomic model increased to 85.7% and 81.8%, respectively (AUC: 0.903). CONCLUSIONS: Evaluation of PET peritumoral radiomic features together with the primary tumor, rather than just the primary tumor, provides a better prediction of the pCR to NAC in patients with breast cancer.

Computational model based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) skin scanning to identify and quantify acute radiation dermatitis (ARD): a prospective diagnostic study.

BACKGROUND: acute radiation dermatitis (ARD) is the most widely reported radiotherapy-induced adverse event. Currently, there is no objective or reliable method to measure ARD. OBJECTIVE: our main objective was to identify and quantify the effects of radiotherapy with a computational model using optical coherence tomography (OCT) skin scanning. Secondary objectives included determining the ARD impact of different radiotherapeutic schemes and adjuvant topical therapies. METHODS: we conducted a prospective, single-center case series study in a tertiary referral center of patients with breast cancer who were eligible for whole breast radiotherapy (WBRT). RESULTS: a total of 39 women were included and distributed according to the radiotherapeutic schemes (15, 20, and 25 fractions). A computational model was designed to quantitatively analyze OCT findings. After radiotherapy, OCT scanning was more sensitive revealing vascularization changes in 84.6% of the patients (vs 69.2% of the patients with ARD by clinical examination). OCT quantified an increased vascularization at the end of WBRT (P < .05) and a decrease after 3 months (P = .032). Erythematous skin changes by OCT were more pronounced in the 25-fraction regime. CONCLUSION: an OCT computational model allowed for the identification and quantification of vascularization changes on irradiated skin, even in the absence of clinical ARD. This may allow the design of standardized protocols for ARD beyond the skin color of the patients involved.

Mamografía con contraste: nuestra experiencia / Contrast-enhanced digital mammography: our experience

Resumen La mamografía contrastada (CEDM, contrast-enhanced digital mammography) es una herramienta nueva que ha ido implementándose de forma creciente. Aparece como alternativa a la resonancia magnética (RM), y al igual que esta, tiene como principio el uso de contraste endovenoso para explorar la angiogénesis tumoral. Combina la imagen de mamografía convencional (Mx) con la técnica de sustracción con energía dual poscontraste, lo que resulta en un incremento en la detección de cáncer de mama, en un tiempo corto de estudio y a un bajo costo. Es un método prometedor en casos seleccionados y de fácil lectura, siendo útil principalmente en pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer de mama para detectar lesiones adicionales y determinar el tamaño tumoral, ayudando en la planificación quirúrgica, así como también en la evaluación de la respuesta a la neoadyuvancia. También en el seguimiento de pacientes operadas, para caracterizar lesiones dudosas en Mx y ecografía, o como alternativa ante contraindicación de la RM. El objetivo de este trabajo es valorar la utilidad de la mamografía contrastada en la práctica diaria y determinar sus principales indicaciones. Repasamos con casos propios las utilidades y características del método.

Abstract Contrast-enhanced digital mammography (CEDM) is an emerging tool that has been increasingly implemented. It appears as an alternative to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), using intravenous contrast to explore tumor angiogenesis. It combines conventional mammography (Mx) with post-contrast dual energy subtraction technique, resulting in increased detection of breast cancer, in a short study time and at a low cost. It is a promising method in selected cases and easy to read, being useful mainly in patients with breast cancer to detect additional lesions and determine the tumor size, that helps surgical planning, as well as in the evaluation of post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy response in the follow-up of patients treated with surgery, to address inconclusive findings in screening mammogram, or as an alternative when MRI is contraindicated. The purpose of this article is to assess the usefulness of contrasted mammography in daily practice and to determine its main indications. We review with our own cases the applications and characteristics of this method.

Concordance between freehand SPECT and conventional scintigraphy for sentinel lymph node detection in breast cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Freehand SPECT can be a useful imaging technique for preoperative planning of sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) as it allows localization of the sentinel node by 3D and real-time tomographic imaging and determines its depth after a few minutes of scanning. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between the number of detected SNs between freehand SPECT images and lymphoscintigraphy (LS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: 100 patients with a diagnosis of invasive breast cancer and no clinical evidence of lymph node involvement prospectively underwent SLNB. The preoperative study included freehand SPECT imaging at 15min after injection and LS imaging at 25 and 60-90min after injection (early and late). The observed agreement was analyzed and a concordance study was performed between the number of SNs detected with freehand SPECT and LS. RESULTS: The observed agreement in the detection of SNs between freehand SPECT and early LS was 72%; between freehand SPECT and late LS was 85%; and between early and late LS was 87%. In the concordance study, there was moderate concordance between freehand SPECT and early LS (kappa coefficient: 0.42); moderate-high concordance between freehand SPECT and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.60); and moderate-high concordance between early and late LS (kappa coefficient: 0.70), with no significant differences between them (p-value=0.16). CONCLUSION: Freehand SPECT showed a moderate-high concordance with conventional imaging studies and could be a valid alternative for the presurgical study of SLNB in breast cancer.