Circulating tumor cells and novel biomarkers for prognostic and biological of breast cancer

Excerpt

The detection of microscopic disease in breast cancer has been evaluated in lymph nodes, bone marrow (primary breast cancer), and peripheral blood (metastatic disease) [1, 2]. Most of these studies demonstrated that the detection of microscopic disease in breast cancer patients contributes prognostic information and, in selected cases, can predict the efficacy of treatments [1, 2]. In primary breast cancer, the detection of microscopic disease in lymph nodes and bone marrow has led to a better understanding of the role of minimal residual disease (MRD). In metastatic breast cancer (MBC) reliable detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) had been obtained by using immuno-magnetic separation and subsequent analysis by the CellSpotter™ analyzer (Veridex LLC, a Johnson & Johnson company, Warren, NJ, USA). This technology is becoming a standard tool for the 'real-time' assessment of prognosis and response to treatment. This is particularly important in the context of advanced disease management, considering the incurable status of the disease and the increasing therapeutic options available that could at least contribute to improve palliation and impact on overall survival. …