Clinical Characteristics and Management of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) in Jordan: A Retrospective Analysis

TL;DR

This study examines the clinical features and treatment of triple-negative breast cancer in Jordan, highlighting the need for tailored interventions and further research.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into TNBC management in Jordan, emphasizing the role of neoadjuvant therapy and lymphovascular invasion in treatment planning.

Findings

84% of TNBC patients in Jordan underwent modified radical mastectomy.

Lymphovascular invasion was present in 41% of cases and linked to higher lymph node positivity.

Neoadjuvant therapy was used in 25% of cases preceding surgery.

Abstract

Introduction

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is known for its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. Despite its responsiveness to chemotherapy, TNBC presents challenges in terms of survival, recurrence, and mortality rates, particularly in diverse populations. Limited research in the Middle East hampers comprehensive understanding and tailored management.

Methods

A retrospective study at the King Hussein Medical Center in Jordan between the period 2009 to 2023 explored TNBC patients (n=110) who underwent adjuvant chemotherapy after local excision or modified radical mastectomy (MRM). Data encompassed demographics, clinical variables, and operative details. Statistical analysis employed Wilcoxon and chi-squared tests, examining mortality risks and associations between variables.

Results

Among 110 TNBC patients (mean age 52), 84% underwent MRM, 16% wide local excision and axillary clearance (WLE&AC). Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) was observed in 41%, linked to higher lymph node positivity. Neoadjuvant therapy preceded MRM in 25% of cases. While 75% had grade III tumors, the prevalence of invasive ductal carcinoma was 85%.

Conclusions

This study contributes crucial insights into TNBC characteristics and management in Jordan. Despite limitations such as retrospective design and sample size, the findings underscore the need for tailored interventions in TNBC patients, emphasizing the importance of neoadjuvant therapy and vigilant consideration of LVI status in treatment planning. Future longitudinal research should delve into disease progression and treatment outcomes in diverse populations, facilitating optimized TNBC management strategies.

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