Case Based - Overview
The Impact of Bone-Sparing Therapies in a Premenopausal Patient With Stage II Breast Cancer Undergoing Adjuvant Ovarian Suppression
Release Date: October 31, 2008
Expiration Date: October 31, 2009
Interactive Case Study Overview
For premenopausal patients with hormone receptor–positive (HR+) early-stage breast cancer, multiple therapeutic options complicate treatment decision making. While both selective estrogen receptor (ER) modulators and ovarian ablation or suppression have demonstrated efficacy in this patient population, the optimal combinations of therapy and length of administration are unclear. Additionally, the roles of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) in premenopausal patients and of chemotherapy in patients with low-risk early-stage disease, particularly the benefit/risk ratios of these regimens, are under debate. Furthermore, bone complications present a frequent clinical challenge because many therapies for early-stage breast cancer can have a deleterious effect on bone density, leading to increased risk of fracture. This risk requires physicians to examine the therapeutic options for maintenance and restoration of bone health in patients with low bone mineral density who are receiving endocrine therapy. While several bone-targeted agents, including bisphosphonates, are under investigation in the adjuvant setting for prevention of bone loss, optimal timing and duration of therapy are still under investigation.
The purpose of this activity is to update physicians on the adjuvant therapeutic options for premenopausal patients with HR+ early-stage breast cancer, including prevention of treatment-related bone loss.
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 is required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Evaluate the efficacy and safety of endocrine therapy with or without chemotherapy for premenopausal patients with HR+ early-stage breast cancer
- Assess the utility of additional endocrine therapy with a selective ER modulator or an AI in premenopausal patients with breast cancer who are receiving ovarian suppression
- Discuss treatment-induced bone loss in patients with HR+ early-stage breast cancer, including the role of bisphosphonate therapy in the maintenance of bone health and prevention of disease recurrence
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before beginning the educational activity.
- Complete the Pretest.
- 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.
Successful completion is determined by a score of 67% or greater.
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