This is the Scientific Surgery Archive, which contains all randomized clinical trials in surgery that have been identified by searching the top 50 English language medical journal issues since January 1998. Compiled by Jonothan J. Earnshaw, former Editor-in-Chief, BJS
Detection, treatment and outcome of axillary recurrence after axillary clearance for invasive breast cancer. BJS 2001; 88: 118-122.
Published: 6th December 2002
Authors: R. de Boer, H. F. P. Hillen, R. M. H. Roumen, H. J. T. Rutten, M. J. C. van der Sangen, A. C. Voogd et al.
Background
The aim was to gain insight into the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of axillary recurrence after axillary clearance for invasive breast cancer in a large patient series.
Method
Between 1984 and 1994, 4669 patients with invasive breast cancer underwent axillary clearance in eight community hospitals in the south‐eastern part of the Netherlands. Using follow‐up data in a population‐based cancer registry, 59 patients with axillary recurrence were identified.
Results
The median interval between treatment of the primary tumour and the diagnosis of axillary recurrence was 2·6 (range 0·3–10·7) years. In 51 patients (86 per cent), axillary recurrence was found by palpation during routine follow‐up. Surgery was part of the treatment of recurrence for 41 of 59 patients. Regional control (complete eradication of axillary recurrence) was achieved in 34 patients (58 per cent). The 5‐year actuarial survival rate was 39 (95 per cent confidence interval 25–53) per cent. Patients with negative axillary lymph nodes at the time of diagnosis of the primary tumour and complete eradication of axillary recurrence had the best prognosis.
Conclusion
Patients with axillary recurrence had a poor prognosis, except when complete eradication was achieved and axillary lymph nodes were negative at the time of diagnosis of the primary tumour. © 2001 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd
Full text