"Early Detection of Brain Metastases Possible in Breast Cancer Patients Even Without Symptoms"

Up to 19.6% Detected in HER2-Positive and Triple-Negative Patients
67% of Patients Identified Before Onset of Symptoms

A study has found that regular brain MRI screenings can detect brain metastases at an early stage even in patients with asymptomatic advanced breast cancer.

The Yonsei Cancer Center's Department of Oncology research team announced on March 18 that they conducted regular brain MRI screenings for patients with HER2-positive or triple-negative advanced breast cancer, and found that a significant number of brain metastases were detected during the asymptomatic phase. The results of the study were published in the official journal of the European Society for Medical Oncology, "ESMO Open."

The study was conducted from 2018 to 2023 on 112 asymptomatic patients. Brain MRIs were performed at the time of breast cancer diagnosis as well as at the initiation of second- and third-line treatments.

As a result, brain metastases were discovered in 9.8% of patients without symptoms during the initial screening. Through subsequent regular screenings, the cumulative detection rate increased to 19.6%. Notably, among the 33 patients who developed brain metastases, 67% were identified before the onset of neurological symptoms.

Patients whose metastases were detected early received treatments such as stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and there were no significant declines in cognitive function before and after treatment. The research team explained that early diagnosis and treatment during the asymptomatic stage can help maintain the quality of life for patients.

Currently, domestic and international guidelines do not recommend regular brain MRI screenings for patients with asymptomatic advanced breast cancer. However, as HER2-positive and triple-negative breast cancers are known to carry a high risk of brain metastasis, the need for early screening has been raised.

The research team stated, "If brain metastases are detected early, combining radiation therapy and systemic therapy can improve treatment outcomes," adding, "Further research is needed on screening strategies for high-risk patient groups."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.