The measurement and therapeutic implications of circulating tumour cells in breast cancer

Br J Cancer. 2006 Jan 16;94(1):8-12. doi: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6602871.

Abstract

Circulating tumours cells (CTCs) represent an important biologic link in the spread of breast cancer from primary to metastatic disease. CTCs are strong predictors of prognosis in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Research to date has focused on development of methods with adequate sensitivity and specificity to reproducibly identify these rare events. Future research will focus on the biologic phenotypes of these cells with goals to understand mechanisms of metastasis, to identify novel therapeutic targets, and to monitor response to therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / physiopathology*
  • Breast Neoplasms / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Metastasis / physiopathology*
  • Neoplastic Cells, Circulating*
  • Prognosis