Angiosarcoma of the Breast and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor

Abstract

Background

Breast angiosarcoma is rare and often associated with previous breast cancer treatment. The present study aimed to define long-term outcomes in relation to common prognostic factors. The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor was also evaluated, as it may be a potential target for anti-angiogenic therapy.

Patients and methods

We retrospectively assessed outcomes in relation to age, association with previous breast-conserving treatment for breast cancer, tumor size, and grade in 19 patients without metastases at diagnosis. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor was also assessed.

Results

Median follow-up was 33 months (range, 1–121). There were 6 local recurrences and 6 deaths for disease progression. Five-year disease-free survival and overall survival were 53% (95% CI, 20–86%) and 49% (95% CI, 14–84%), respectively. No factor significantly affected survival. Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor was positive in 50% of cases and was more frequent in better differentiated cancer.

Conclusions

The association of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor with G1/G2 tumors requires further investigations. Our findings suggest that anti-angiogenic treatment in vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-positive cases be considered as a novel therapeutic modality in this rare and aggressive disease. Although information is still incomplete, we propose a multimodal therapeutic approach including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Free full text available at www.tumorionline.it