Improved Survival of Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer in Routine Care: Results of a Retrospective Study in a Community-Based Oncology Group Practice 1995–2005

Abstract

Background: Little is known about the treatment reality in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) outside clinical trials. We undertook this analysis to evaluate the actual treatment reality for unselected patients with MBC in routine care. Patients and Methods: All patients with MBC, who were treated in our community-based group practice between 1995 and 2005, were analyzed retrospectively concerning prognostic factors, treatment, and survival. Results: 403 consecutive patients were evaluated with a median age of 60 years (range 32–93). Aromatase inhibitor therapy was used in 87% of all patients. 83% received chemotherapy with the median number of lines being 3 (1–15). An anthracycline was given to 49%, a taxane was used in 55%, vinorelbine in 42%, capecitabine in 36%, gemcitabine in 28%, and a platinum compound in 9%. 94% of patients with bone metastasis received a bisphosphonate, and 63% of HER-2/neu-positive patients were treated with trastuzumab. Median survival since the start of palliative therapy was 30 months. Statistical analysis revealed as major prognostic factors hormone receptor status and prevalence of only bone metastasis. Conclusions: Treatment reality of MBC in routine care reveals a prolonged median survival of 30 months which is probably due to the sequential use of the most effective treatment modalities.