ABSTRACT
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of death in women. Early breast cancer is defined as disease that is confined to the breast with or without limited regional lymph node involvement and the absence of distant metastasis. The management of early breast cancer typically involves a multidisciplinary approach.
Breast-conserving surgery is the preferred primary treatment option for most women. Following surgery, adjuvant therapy, such as radiation therapy with systemic therapy, is recommended to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. The management of axillary lymph nodes is paramount to improve long-term survival rates. The choice of adjuvant therapy is based on a number of factors, including the characteristics of the tumor, the woman's age and overall health, and her preferences. The goal of adjuvant therapy is to eliminate any cancer cells, thereby reducing the risk of recurrence and improving survival. Follow-up care includes regular surveillance imaging and clinical examinations. In summary, the management of early breast cancer involves a coordinated approach between multiple specialists and a range of treatments, with the goal of achieving the best possible outcomes for each individual woman.
