Recurrent breast cancer: Pattern of recurrences, locoregionally and metastases

ABSTRACT

The anatomical and patterns of recurrence were studied in 92 patients with first recurrence of breast cancer. Most patients recurred in a single site and 50% of the recurrences were diagnosed within the first 2 years from initial diagnosis. Generally, the status of primary demographic, clinical and pathoanatomical characteristics as well as primary treatment were not predictive as to the development of recurrences. Bone scanning is an effective method to exclude metastatic bone disease. A positive scan, however, requires radiologic confirmation [specificity 64%]. The diagnostic value of clinical examinations and biochemical tests for liver metastases is satisfactory. Chest X-ray revealed intrathoracic recurrence in 25% [23 patients]. The location of unilateral pleural effusions was significantly related to same site as the primary tumor [P < 0.01]. Local and regional recurrences constituted the most common sites of soft recurrence [37% and 30%]