Chromosomal radiosensitivity in G2-phase lymphocytes identifies breast cancer patients with distinctive tumour characteristics
2001

Breast Cancer and Chromosomal Radiosensitivity

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Riches A C, Bryant P E, Steel C M, Gleig A, Robertson A J, Preece P E, Thompson A M

Primary Institution: Medical Science and Human Biology, School of Biology, University of St Andrews

Hypothesis

Does chromosomal radiosensitivity in G2-phase lymphocytes identify breast cancer patients with distinctive tumor characteristics?

Conclusion

High chromosomal radiosensitivity in breast cancer patients is associated with distinctive tumor characteristics and a better prognosis.

Supporting Evidence

  • 46% of breast cancer patients showed high radiosensitivity compared to 14% of controls.
  • Predicted survival at 15 years was 55% for high G2RS patients versus 36% for low G2RS patients.
  • 81% of tumors from high G2RS patients were estrogen receptor positive compared to 45% from low G2RS patients.

Takeaway

Some women with breast cancer are more sensitive to radiation, which can help doctors understand their cancer better and predict how well they might do.

Methodology

Chromatid break frequencies were compared between untreated breast cancer patients and hospital outpatient controls.

Participant Demographics

Breast cancer patients and hospital outpatient controls.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1054/bjoc.2001.2086

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