WHAT ARE EXPERIMENTAL AND OTHER TREATMENTS USED FOR BREAST CANCER?

Trastuzumab and Other HER-2 Blockers

Monoclonal antibodies are genetically designed agents that bind only to cells that have a specific marker on the cell surface. The antibody identifies the target cells, interprets those cells as foreign to the body and therefore dangerous, and destroys them.

Trastuzumab

Trastuzumab (Herceptin), one of the first therapeutic monoclonal antibodies invented, destroys cells carrying the HER-2 protein, but does not interfere with normal cells. This protein is partly responsible for cancer cell growth in about 30% of breast cancer patients. Several trials are testing trastuzumab in women with early-stage stage breast cancer who are positive for the HER-2 gene.

It is being used in combination with paclitaxel followed by doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide. Earlier trials reported an increase in survival rates in metastatic breast cancer patients when trastuzumab was used in combination with the paclitaxel. Of concern are reports of toxic effects on the heart with this combination.

Bisphosphonates

Bisphosphonates, such as clodronate and pamidronate, are now very important agents for preventing fractures and reduce pain in people whose cancer has spread to the bones. Some studies indicate that administering an oral form in early stage breast cancer may even reduce the incidence of metastasis in the bone. Trials are underway in patients with early stage breast cancer to determine this.

Other Biologic Agents

A number of drugs are continually being tested against breast cancer; among the most intriguing to scientists are vaccines that use the patient's own immune system to prevent or fight off cancer.

Last updated Nov 26/06