Efficacy observation of (125)I seed implantation therapy for locoregional recurrent and metastatic breast cancer

Abstract

To assess the efficacy and side effects of (125)I seed implantation for locoregional recurrent and metastatic breast cancer, and to discuss its role in the comprehensive therapy of breast cancer. Forty-three patients with locoregional recurrent or metastatic breast cancer were included in this study. They received (125)I seed implantation and were followed up to evaluate the efficacy and adverse reactions of the treatment. Among 54 lesions in the 43 cases, there were complete response (CR) in 39, partial response (PR) in 13, stable disease (SD) in 2 patients, with a response rate of 96.3%. All 17 cases with local pain achieved pain relief. With a median follow up of 36 months (range 14 to 60 months), the 1-, 3-, and 5-year local control rate was 85.2%, 53.7% and 1.9%, and the 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rate was 95.3%, 67.4% and 37.2%, respectively. No serious radiotherapy side effect was observed. In patients with unresectable locoregional recurrent or metastatic breast cancer, (125)I seed implantation shows proved efficacy and few complications, and can be an important treatment option.