Primary tumour characteristics and axillary lymph node status in breast cancer
1999
Breast Cancer and Lymph Node Status
Sample size: 909
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Yiangou C, Shousha S, Sinnett H D
Primary Institution: Charing Cross Hospital
Hypothesis
This study examines the correlation between axillary lymph node status and primary tumour characteristics in breast cancer.
Conclusion
Axillary dissection is not necessary for T1a breast cancers, but other factors should be considered for T1b, T1c, and grade I T2 tumours.
Supporting Evidence
- 44.7% of patients had axillary lymph nodes with metastases.
- Nodal status was negative in all T1a tumours.
- Lymph node metastases were present in 16.3% of T1b and 35.7% of T1c tumours.
- 85% of patients with lymphovascular invasion had lymph node metastases.
Takeaway
The study looked at how breast cancer characteristics relate to lymph nodes, finding that some patients might not need surgery based on their cancer type.
Methodology
Retrospective analysis of patients who underwent axillary dissection.
Participant Demographics
Patients who underwent axillary dissection, including 406 with metastases and 37 with carcinomas-in-situ.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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