Management of primary breast cancer: an update

Abstract

Based on results of trials emerged during the last 2 years and on data presented at the 8th International Conference on Primary Therapy of Early Breast Cancer held in 2003 in St. Gallen, a summary of current knowledge and controversies in the management of breast cancer is given. The following topics are covered: screening, biology, surgery, radiation therapy, primary systemic therapy, and adjuvant therapy (biological therapies, chemotherapy, endocrine therapies including ovarian ablation, and their interactions).