Brain Metastases in Triple Receptor-Negative Breast Cancer: Frequency, Risk Groups and Prognosis

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this retrospective analysis is to determine the frequency, pattern, risk factors and survival of triple receptor-negative breast cancer (TNBC) focusing on brain metastases. Methods: From January 2001 to December 2007, a total of 123 patients with stage I through III TNBC were treated at the Department of Clinical Oncology, Tanta University Hospital. Patients were reviewed to define the frequency, risk groups, survival and prognosis of brain metastases in TNBC. Follow-up lasted until September 30, 2012. Results: The ages ranged from 30 to 70 years (mean, 48.87 years). Fifteen patients (12.20%) out of 123 patients developed brain metastasis and in 10 (8.13%) of them the brain was the first site of metastasis. Eleven (73.3%) out of this 15 patients developed brain metastases within 1 year of their primary diagnosis, and 8 patients out of these 11 patients developed brain metastases within the first 3 months. The incidence of brain metastases was significantly higher in premenopausal patients (p = 0.009), and patients who did not received postoperative radiotherapy (p