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Continuing Education Information

Physicians' Education Resource is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Physicians' Education Resource designates this educational activity for a maximum of 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Case Studies in Breast Cancer Vol. 6, No. 2

Release Date: August 20, 2008
Expiration Date: August 20, 2009

Publication Overview

Author

Erica Mayer, MD, MPH

Overview and Purpose

For patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), the primary goals of therapy are prolongation of survival and palliation of symptoms. While targeted therapies show substantial activity in HER+ MBC, systemic chemotherapeutic regimens have been the mainstay of treatment for patients with HER– MBC. No specific chemotherapy regimen has emerged as optimal, and several cytotoxic agents are now under investigation in combination with targeted agents. The incorporation of antiangiogenic therapy into chemotherapeutic regimens is increasing as these agents continue to demonstrate significant efficacy in the metastatic setting. Several classes of targeted antiangiogenic agents, including monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors, are currently under investigation in breast cancer. Ongoing research is also addressing the optimal strategy of the integration of antiangiogenic therapy into chemotherapy regimens in order to maximize efficacy and minimize toxicity.

The purpose of this activity is to discuss the therapeutic options, including the addition of antiangiogenic therapy to traditional chemotherapy regimens, for patients with HER– MBC.

Target Audience

This publication 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:

  • Compare strategies for administration of chemotherapy, including concurrent and sequential regimens, in the treatment of patients with MBC
  • Evaluate the latest clinical data on the efficacy of antiangiogenic monoclonal antibodies as first-line therapy for patients with HER– locally recurrent or metastatic breast cancer
  • Identify and describe the novel antiangiogenic small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors currently being evaluated in the treatment of patients with MBC

Instructions for Participation

  1. Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
  2. Study the educational activity.
  3. Complete the CME test.
  4. Answer the evaluation questions.
  5. After successful completion of the CME test and evaluation, you will receive your certificate of credit online.
  • CME credit will be granted for only 1 form of participation, either online or via the printed publication.
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