Case Based - Overview
Treatment Options for Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer in the First-line Setting
Release Date: December 22, 2007
Expiration Date: December 22, 2008
Interactive Case Study Overview
Although taxanes play a critical role in the treatment of both metastatic and early-stage breast cancer and their efficacy has validated the microtubule as a target in breast cancer treatment strategies, difficulty in delivery due to their hydrophobic nature as well as their susceptibility to resistance mechanisms has led to the development of new agents that target the microtubule. Recent research has focused on new microtubule-targeting agents such as epothilones. These agents inhibit microtubule function by binding tubulin at different sites than do taxanes or through alternative mechanisms than do taxanes, which could minimize cross-resistance. In addition, the epothilones appear to be less susceptible to multidrug resistance transport proteins. They have displayed activity in taxane-resistant cells and tumors both in preclinical and clinical studies. In metastatic breast cancer, these agents have demonstrated significant efficacy when combined with fluoropyrimidine analogues and have recently been approved for use in this setting. With the number and variety of active agents now available for metastatic breast cancer, treatment options have greatly expanded, with a corresponding increase in the complexity of the decision-making process.
Target Audience
This educational activity is intended for medical oncologists involved in the care of patients with breast cancer. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology are required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Discuss options for patients with residual disease following preoperative therapy for early-stage breast cancer
- Assess the efficacy and safety of epothilones as first-line therapy in anthracycline- and taxane-refractory metastatic disease
- Review the efficacy of epothilones in anthracycline-, taxane-, and fluoropyrimidine-refractory metastatic breast cancer
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before beginning the educational activity.
- Study the educational activity.
- Complete the CME test.
- Answer the evaluation questions.
- After successful completion of the CME test and evaluation, you will receive your certificate of credit online.
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