Clinical role of trastuzumab in metastatic breast cancer: experience of a center

Objective

To study the efficacy of different regimens of treatment based on trastuzumab in patients with Her2+ metastatic breast cancer (MBC).

Patients and methods

Medical records of 47 Her2+ MBC patients were retrospectively studied in our center between December 1999 and February 2004. The Her2 status was determined by immunohistochemistry (Herceptest), FISH being used to discriminate the doubtful cases.

Results

Forty-seven patients with MBC of bad prognosis treated previously have been evaluated, a complete response (CR) being observed in 30% of the cases with a response rate (RR) (CR + partial response (PR)) of 63%. The stable disease rate (SD) was 12%, which provides a clinical benefit (CR + RP + SD) of 75%. Thirteen of these patients received a new scheme of treatment based on trastuzumab after progression to the first regimen containing trastuzumab, 76% of RR (CR + PR) and 30% of CR being observed. Three of these patients received a third regimen of treatment with trastuzumab, still obtaining one CR (RR 33%), and one SD.

Conclusion

The association of trastuzumab with chemotherapy constitutes a very active regimen in previously treated patients with MBC of poor prognosis. This activity even continues in patients who have already received a previous treatment based on trastuzumab.