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A groundbreaking clinical trial co-led by Dr. Heather McArthur at UT Southwestern Medical Center has demonstrated that a shorter, simpler treatment protocol can achieve results comparable to the current standard of care for triple-negative breast cancer, while reducing toxicity and improving patients’ quality of life. The findings, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, could pave the way for less harmful, more efficient treatment regimens.
Triple-negative breast cancer, which makes up 10%-15% of all breast cancers, is known for its aggressive nature, lack of targeted treatments, and poor prognosis. This type of cancer tends to affect younger women and is more prevalent among Black patients.
In a previous clinical trial, KEYNOTE-522, patients received an extensive regimen involving immunotherapy and chemotherapy, followed by a year of additional immunotherapy. While 64% of patients achieved a pathologic complete response (no evidence of cancer), the treatment was also associated with significant toxicity, including nausea, diarrhea, and neuropathy.
In response, Dr. McArthur and her team developed a new protocol where patients received two doses of immunotherapy with radiation therapy before chemotherapy. The approach led to a similar response rate, with 59% of triple-negative breast cancer patients showing no cancer following treatment. However, the new regimen resulted in only half the toxicity of the previous one, with fewer doctor visits and a significantly shorter treatment timeline.
The study’s success suggests that altering the timing of radiation can enhance the effectiveness of both immunotherapy and chemotherapy, making it possible to reduce dosages and durations.
While this novel approach is promising, further research is ongoing to refine and optimize these treatment methods.
Disclaimer: This study is part of ongoing research and should not be taken as definitive medical advice. Patients should consult their healthcare providers for personalized treatment options.
