The effects of anesthesia on cancer progression and anti-tumor immunity. A review

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies, treated with primary surgery, or surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Many studies indicate that the peri-operative period is critical as interference with the immune system may affect prognosis. Whether certain anesthetic agents can affect the immune response and cancer progression is still unresolved. Evidence acquisition: In the current study, we review the existing clinical and experimental studies, in an attempt to extract useful information for clinical application in the anesthesia practice for patients treated with surgery for breast cancer. A bibliographic search in PubMed and ScienceDirect related to the effects of anesthesia on cancer progression and anti-tumor immunity, published from January 2000 till today was performed. Evidence synthesis: All included studies were gathered in a list and they were analysed. A total of 34 studies were found relevant to the subject in PubMed and ScienceDirect. Conclusion: The overall experience suggests that the peri-operative management of cancer patients should focus on the reduction of surgical stress, the minimization of the use of opioids, and the adoption of regional anesthetics. This could have an impact on anti-tumour immunity and the outcome of cancer patients.