Article Details - Overview
Biological Therapy of Breast Cancer Vol. 9, No. 2
Release Date: November 25, 2008
Expiration Date: November 25, 2009
Publication Overview
Authors
Alison Stopeck, MD; Beth Overmoyer, MD, FACP; Rachel Swart, MD, PhD
Overview and Purpose
As the understanding of tumor biology increases, so does the number of targeted agents for the treatment of breast cancer. Although many of these agents have demonstrated efficacy in both early-stage and advanced disease, many questions remain. For patients with HER2+ breast cancer, disease progression following prior HER2-targeted therapy is common, and several recent studies have addressed the optimal therapeutic options for this patient population. These strategies, including incorporation of agents targeting HER2-related pathways, must be carefully examined in comparison with traditional HER2-targeted therapy. Antiangiogenic therapy has also become a major component of breast cancer therapy, although the appropriate cytotoxic partners must be chosen to optimize effectiveness and minimize toxicity. The next generation of targeted agents is directed at several signaling pathways important in breast cancer development and progression, and several of these novel inhibitors are demonstrating activity in patients with advanced disease. As these targeted agents are increasingly combined in breast cancer treatment regimens, the rationale behind these combinations and the benefit/risk ratio for each clinical scenario will have to be carefully examined. Ultimately, the increase in the use of targeted agents for breast cancer will result in better individualization of therapy and improved disease outcome.
The purpose of this activity is to update physicians on preclinical and clinical data concerning the rationale and efficacy of targeted agents in the treatment of patients with breast cancer.
Target Audience
This 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 safety and efficacy of HER2-targeted agents, including novel HER2-targeted therapies, in patients with HER2+ breast cancer
- Assess the current status of antiangiogenic therapy, including evaluation of the latest safety and efficacy data on antiangiogenic agents in combination with traditional cytotoxics as well as novel targeted agents, in patients with breast cancer
- Examine novel biologic agents targeting new signaling pathways involved in breast cancer development and progression currently under investigation
- Discuss the use of anthracyclines, including the potential effect of HER2 and topoisomerase IIα status on tumor sensitivity to anthracycline-based chemotherapy, in the treatment of patients with breast cancer
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering 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.
CME credit will be granted for only 1 form of participation, either online or via the printed publication.
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