IMPACT OF THE NUMBER OF DISSECTED AXILLARY LYMPH NODES ON SURVIVAL IN BREAST CANCER PATIENTS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Locoregional control as well as breast cancer mortality benefit have been shown from adjuvant radiation therapy following breast conservation surgery or following mastectomy with node-positive disease. Partial breast irradiation via external brachytherapy, beam, or intraoperative techniques has been shown to limit the volume of irradiated tissue in select groups of women while preserving efficacy although data on long-term outcomes is limited. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Early stage breast cancer (BC) patients with histologically confirmed invasive breast carcinoma clinically 5 cm or less in size, no palpable adenopathy, and with sentinel nodes were included in the study that received lumpectomy with whole-breast irradiation, and underwent either axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) or sentinel lymph node dissection (SLND) alone. Patients were followed up to three years and assessed for disease recurrence with a history and physical examination every 6 months. RESULTS: A total of 86 patients were included in the study. Of the 86 patients 43 were in SLND group and 43 were in the ALND group. In SLND group 40 (93%) received radiation therapy and in ALND group 41 (95%). No difference was noted in the groups in the use of high tangents, nodal irradiation, or no irradiation. Adjuvant systemic therapy was given to 42 (98%) in SLND group and 42 to (98%) ALND group. CONCLUSION: Radiation therapy has an integral role in the management of breast cancer. In SLND group three years disease free survival was 41 (95%) and for ALND group 40(93%).