HER2+ Breast Cancer: Anthracycline Considerations

This is a video synopsis/summary of a Peer Exchange involving Joyce O’Shaughnessy, MD; Priyanka Sharma, MD; Claudine Isaacs, MD; Heather McArthur, MD; and Hope S. Rugo, MD, FASCO.

The panel discusses the use of anthracyclines in patients with HER2-positive breast cancer treatment. Rugo raises the complexity of determining whether patients need anthracyclines, particularly in cases where there’s extensive residual disease after TCHP (docetaxel, carboplatin, trastuzumab, pertuzumab) therapy. O’Shaughnessy highlights the challenge of managing tumors with heterogeneity and true biphenotypic cancers, emphasizing the importance of accurate HER2 testing and considering a preoperative AC (doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide) regimen in certain scenarios. Sharma notes situations where AC might be considered, such as when the patient has baseline peripheral neuropathy or if there are concerns about the patient completing 6 cycles of taxane-based therapy. Isaacs mentions cases with bilateral disease exhibiting different characteristics where anthracyclines may provide broader coverage. The discussion emphasizes personalized approaches, taking into account individual patient factors and tumor characteristics to optimize the treatment of patients with HER2-positive breast cancer.

Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by OncLive^® editorial staff.