Targeted Therapy and Local Control: The Dynamic Duo

Abstract

Breast cancer is a heterogeneous entity, comprised of several distinct molecular subtypes with differing genetic profiles and resultant prognostic implications. It has become increasingly evident that tumor biology is the key to understanding not only the pathogenesis of breast cancer but also to tailoring therapies to optimize outcomes. Classically, the hormone receptor-positive subtypes have the most favorable outcomes, whereas the triple-negative (TN) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2?) subtypes are ascribed higher rates of locoregional recurrence (LRR) and distant metastases, shown in a number of studies and a large systematic review.